Lexington County, South Carolina – A Lexington County man faces 20 new charges in a child exploitation case, expanding an ongoing investigation.
According to the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, Richard Channing Shealy, 53, of Lexington, was charged with 20 additional counts tied to alleged child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and criminal sexual conduct involving a minor.
Officials said the new charges include two counts of criminal sexual conduct with a minor, four counts of committing a lewd act upon a child, and multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a minor across varying degrees. Shealy was initially arrested on March 26, 2026, on 13 related charges involving the alleged distribution and possession of exploitative material.
Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office reportedly began the case after identifying files shared online. The case was later referred to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, which conducted a search warrant at Shealy’s home. Authorities said additional evidence was uncovered during that search, leading to the latest charges.
According to officials, the new allegations include claims that Shealy allegedly possessed, distributed, and produced exploitative material involving a minor.
At a bond hearing held Friday morning in Lexington County, Magistrate Judge Gary Reinhart denied bond for Shealy. Authorities said he turned himself in on the new charges earlier the same day.
Under South Carolina law, several of the charges carry potential prison sentences ranging from up to 10 years to as much as 30 years per count, depending on severity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials said all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
This case may be of particular concern to families, students, and young internet users due to its online origins.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
