South Asheville News

From March 25, 2023 post. 

THE BUNCOMBE COUNTRY SHERIFFS OFFICE ARRESTS TWO IN CHILD PORNOGRAPHY INVESTIGATION

Detectives with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office have charged Jacob Hanalei Boyd and James Edd Ligon Jr. with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor after investigating a Cyber Alert from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. 

In February 2023, Special Investigation Unit Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant stemming from a tip. The investigation resulted in the discovery of approximately 1,000 sexually explicit photographs of children. 

"The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is dedicated to investigating domestic violence, sex offenses, and crimes against children. Violence and abuse have no place in our community. Our SIU detectives will continue to fervently pursue all offenders and investigate all tips", said Major John Ledford.

“I am proud of the joint efforts that went into this heartbreaking investigation. We hope that these charges bring some solace to the children and the families affected. If you have experienced violence or exploitation, I encourage you to please come forward and make a report. The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office is here to help", said SIU Detective Michelle Skeeters.

Jacob Hanalei Boyd has been charged with ten counts of Third Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and was placed in the Buncombe County Detention Center after being issued a $30,000 secured bond.

James Edd Ligon Jr. has been charged with five counts of Third Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and was placed in the Buncombe County Detention Center after being issued a $20,000 secured bond.

The Sheriff’s Office is releasing limited information regarding the location and details of this crime out of respect for the victims and their families. 

If you are experiencing sexual violence please call 911 immediately or contact Our Voice at (828) 252-0562.

Original source can be found here.