Hawesville Man Charged with Distributing Child Pornography

Suspect accused of sharing images of children under 12 engaged in sex acts

Mar. 26, 2026 at 6:10pm

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A 34-year-old Hawesville, Kentucky man has been arrested and charged with 20 counts of distributing and possessing child pornography involving victims under the age of 12. The Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch made the arrest after an undercover investigation discovered the suspect sharing the illicit material online.

Why it matters

The distribution and possession of child pornography is a serious crime that exploits and traumatizes vulnerable minors. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to identify and apprehend individuals engaged in these abusive activities within local communities.

The details

Carl W. Warner was charged with 10 counts of distribution of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance (victim under 12) and 10 counts of possession of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance (victim under 12). All charges are class C felonies punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The investigation began after the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch discovered Warner sharing the illicit material online, leading to a search warrant and seizure of equipment from his Hawesville residence.

  • On Tuesday, the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch arrested Carl W. Warner.
  • The investigation into Warner's online activities began after authorities discovered him sharing images of child sexual exploitation.

The players

Carl W. Warner

A 34-year-old man from Hawesville, Kentucky who was arrested and charged with 20 counts of distributing and possessing child pornography involving victims under the age of 12.

Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch

The law enforcement unit that conducted the undercover investigation leading to Warner's arrest and charges.

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What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and Warner was lodged in the Breckenridge County Detention Center.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical role of law enforcement in identifying and apprehending individuals engaged in the exploitation of minors through the distribution and possession of child pornography, which remains a persistent and disturbing problem that requires vigilance and action to protect vulnerable children.