Federal agents arrested a Raleigh man on Tuesday after an online child-exploitation probe uncovered evidence that an infant had been harmed, according to authorities. The case led to a federal criminal complaint, an arrest in downtown Raleigh and the rescue of a baby as agents tracked digital leads across multiple states.
Federal Complaint And Charges
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina said FBI agents arrested 42-year-old Andrew Swenson of Raleigh after a magistrate judge signed a federal criminal complaint charging him with coercion and enticement of a minor and production of child pornography. Prosecutors allege Swenson solicited sexually explicit images from a 13-year-old and planned to travel to Nebraska to sexually abuse another minor. The complaint notes that, if convicted of all charges, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and up to life, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Search Reveals Disturbing Evidence And Multiagency Response
According to the complaint, agents who searched Swenson's residence found bags containing rope, zip ties and duct tape. The filing also states he had recently traveled to New York to visit a woman who had an infant and that he produced images and videos of himself sexually abusing the baby. The investigation involves the FBI, the Wake County Sheriff's Office, the Raleigh Police Department and the Apex Police Department, as outlined by the U.S. Attorney's Office. "Those who prey on children ... will be held accountable," FBI Special Agent in Charge Reid Davis said in the release.
Infant Rescued After Agents Follow Digital Trail
FBI Charlotte said agents discovered evidence that an infant had also allegedly been victimized and that a 7-month-old baby was rescued. The office shared the update in a social media post, noting that the investigation originated with the FBI's Omaha field office and that FBI Buffalo made contact to ensure the child was safe, according to FBI Charlotte.
What Comes Next In Court
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin C. Blondel and is docketed as Case No. 5:26-mj-1351-RJ. A criminal complaint is an accusation only, and Swenson is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty in court.
