A three-day undercover operation targeting online child predators has resulted in multiple arrests in McDowell County.
The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the joint sting operation focusing on individuals attempting to solicit children online and travel to McDowell County to meet them for sex.
Four men were arrested and charged with felony solicitation of a child by computer. Those arrested include 20-year-old Justin Bryan Butler of China Grove, 50-year-old Richard Thomas Culhane of Forest City, 58-year-old William Cody Beadle Jr. of Marion, and 39-year-old Terron Juandre Michaux of Lenoir. Bonds range from 50 to 200 thousand dollars. One suspect was also charged with carrying a concealed gun after investigators found a firearm during the arrest.
Authorities say additional suspects from other counties and out of state are facing pending charges.
Sheriff Ricky Buchanan praised investigators, calling the operation an around-the-clock effort designed to protect children before they become victims. Chief Deputy Nathan Mace also commended the teamwork involved and thanked the District Attorney’s Office for its role in prosecuting the cases.
The Sheriff’s Office says operations like this will continue and plans to share additional information with parents and guardians about online safety in the coming weeks.