Marc Donald Soucy, a 59-year-old engineer with the Cary Fire Department, was arrested Wednesday evening and booked on two counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, according to police. The arrest stems from an investigation tied to an incident reported last October and has sparked questions inside a department where Soucy has worked for more than two decades. He remains in custody as investigators continue to process evidence.
According to WRAL, warrants allege Soucy duplicated sexual images that showed a female juvenile between approximately 10 and 13 years old. Public records reviewed by the outlet list Soucy as a fire engineer with the Cary Fire Department since November 2001. The outlet reports the charges are based on evidence collected during an ongoing probe that began after the October report.
He was taken into custody shortly after 5 p.m. Wednesday, ABC11 reports. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Cary Crimestoppers at (919) 460-4636 or submit tips online.
Warrant details
Court documents obtained by CBS17 allege Soucy unlawfully duplicated material depicting a minor engaged in sexual activity, describing some images as lewd and lascivious. Those documents form the basis for the two felony counts pending against him, according to the reporting.
Legal implications
Second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor is a Class E felony under N.C.G.S. 14-190.17, which covers recording, duplicating or distributing material that depicts a minor in sexual activity. The statute allows courts to impose felony sentences and to order restitution for victims under related provisions. Convictions for exploitation offenses typically carry long-term consequences, including registration on the state sex-offender registry and possible prison time.
What's next
Soucy is being held without bond and is scheduled to make his first court appearance Thursday at 1:30 p.m., according to CBS17. The Cary Police Department said it “takes allegations of child exploitation very seriously and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” and investigators continue to urge anyone with information to contact Cary Crimestoppers.
