ROCK HILL, S.C. — Editor's note: This story discusses child sexual abuse material. While nothing is described in detail, reader discretion is advised.
A Rock Hill man is accused of possessing files that depict child sexual abuse.
On Wednesday, the South Carolina Attorney General's Office announced the arrest of 60-year-old Alan Don Ayers. He faces five charges of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. If found guilty, he could face a maximum prison sentence of 50 years; the maximum sentence for the charge in 10 years.
The office said investigators got a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. He was arrested on Tuesday. Wilson's office will prosecute the case.
The office notes it and other law enforcement agencies globally have begun using the term "child sexual abuse material" instead of "child pornography", as the latter implies a child can willingly consent to the creation of the material.
If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence, help is readily available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Resources for help are available in both North Carolina and South Carolina.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.