Man Arrested on Child Porn Charges

Charleston County Detectives today arrested and charged a Mount Pleasant man with two counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor after detectives uncovered explicit text messages and computer images of underage victims.

Deputies were alerted to James Boyd Gentry, 39, of Queensgate Way while investigating a narcotics case, according to a sheriff's news release. When someone turned over Gentry's cell phone, detectives read messages in which Gentry allegedly referenced children engaged in sexual activities.

As a result of the search warrant at the residence several other phones and computers were seized, said Maj. James Brady, sheriff's spokesman. The phones and computers are currently being examined, but already detectives found illicit images on on two CDs, the news release states.

The discs contain images of children engaged in sexual activities, which is the basis for the current charges. Additional charges may occur as the investigation continues. Gentry is charged with posession of marijuana.

Charleston County investigators are working with the FBI to determine if any identification of the victims can be obtained. That may be difficult as the victims faces are not shown in the photos, according to the news release. Additionally, the photos may be downloads or files transferred via computer.