A tip from an online user led to the arrest of a man in Catawba County, North Carolina, on child exploitation charges. Douglas Christopher Keith Maw, 30, of Hickory, faces ten counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of minor. As stated in a social media post by the Catawba County Sheriff's Office, the tip-off prompted an investigation by the Special Victims Unit, resulting in Maw's arrest and his detention at Catawba County Detention Facility under a secured bond of $200,000.
Details indicate that the cyber tip referenced "suspicious online activity" that may involve child exploitation. The investigation steered authorities to Maw, who now awaits a court appearance scheduled for today. Sheriff Don Brown emphasized the unit's commitment to safeguarding children in the community. "Our Special Victims Unit is focused on protecting our children who are among the most vulnerable members of our community," Sheriff Brown stated. "We will pursue anyone who attempts to exploit children, both online and in person," according to a statement from the Catawba County Sheriff's Office.
The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office continues to encourage anyone with information about illegal internet activities to report tips confidentially. A dedicated tip line, 828-466-ATIP (2847), the sheriff’s office website, and a mobile application are available for submitting tips. Public Information Officer Major Aaron Turk provided the information for the release.
