Charlottesville Man Arrested for Child Exploitation

Eric Lamont Hawkins, 48, faces four charges related to possession and distribution of child pornography.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Eric Lamont Hawkins, a 48-year-old Charlottesville resident, has been arrested and charged with four counts of child exploitation, including possession of child pornography and possession with intent to distribute. The charges stem from a cyber-tip received by the Charlottesville Police Department as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children task force.

Why it matters

Child exploitation crimes, including the possession and distribution of child pornography, are serious offenses that can have devastating impacts on victims. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to investigate and prosecute these types of crimes in order to protect vulnerable children and hold perpetrators accountable.

The details

According to a release from the Charlottesville Police Department, Hawkins was arrested on Tuesday, February 27, 2026 at approximately 11:49 a.m. He was charged with one count of possession of child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography (2nd offense), one count of possession of child pornography with intent to distribute, and one count of possession of child pornography with intent to distribute (2nd offense).

  • Hawkins was arrested on Tuesday, February 27, 2026 at approximately 11:49 a.m.

The players

Eric Lamont Hawkins

A 48-year-old Charlottesville resident who has been arrested and charged with four counts of child exploitation crimes.

Charlottesville Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Hawkins and is investigating the case as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children task force.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant Hawkins bail at a hearing scheduled for next week.

The takeaway

This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat child exploitation crimes and protect vulnerable children in the community. It serves as a reminder of the serious consequences for those who engage in such illicit activities.