Local Law Enforcement Tactics in Wake County Digital Sex Crime Cases

Law enforcement in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill now use AI-driven forensic tools to identify and track alleged child pornography activity. Investigations often involve:

• Subpoenas to Google, Apple, Dropbox, or Facebook
• NCMEC and ICAC alerts
• Device seizures with advanced forensic data recovery
• Undercover operations targeting messaging platforms and encrypted apps

Once a search warrant is executed, anything found on your devices—whether intentionally downloaded or not—can be used against you. These investigations can span months before a single charge is filed.

Why You Need an Attorney Who Concentrates in Sex Crime Defense

Patrick Roberts isn’t just a criminal defense lawyer—he’s a sex crimes attorney with specific experience in internet-based and digital sex offenses. Child pornography cases are highly technical, and success often depends on how evidence is challenged and interpreted.

With Patrick Roberts, you get:

• Over 20 years of North Carolina criminal defense experience
• Successful defenses in complex child pornography and exploitation cases
• Trusted relationships with forensic experts and digital evidence analysts
• A tailored defense strategy based on the full scope of evidence—not assumptions

Explore Related Case Results and Sex Crime Defense Areas:
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Common Legal Defenses to Child Pornography Charges

Every child pornography case is unique. At Patrick Roberts Law, we work to uncover the full picture—and challenge the assumptions made by law enforcement.

Some of the most effective defenses include:

• Accidental download: Files accessed or stored without intent
• No knowledge of content: Unaware of what was in downloaded folders or messages
• Improper search warrant: Overbroad or unlawful digital searches
• Shared devices or accounts: Access by other individuals in the home or office
• Corrupted or misclassified files: Content that does not meet the legal threshold

We analyze forensic reports, challenge probable cause, and scrutinize the handling of evidence to look for every opportunity to weaken or dismiss the charges.

Common Questions About Child Pornography Charges in North Carolina

What’s the sentence for child pornography in North Carolina?

Possession of child pornography is generally charged as a Class H felony. Production or distribution can rise to a Class C felony, carrying lengthy prison terms and lifetime sex offender registration. Sentencing is influenced by the number of files, prior convictions, and involvement of interstate communication.

Can I avoid jail or sex offender registration?

Yes—depending on your case and the defense strategy. Patrick Roberts has helped clients avoid jail time, avoid the registry, or secure charge reductions to non-registerable offenses. Every case starts with a thorough review of the evidence and the prosecutor's intent.

What happens if my case is referred to federal court?

Many child pornography cases in Wake County begin at the state level but are passed to federal prosecutors. Federal penalties are significantly harsher. Early intervention by a qualified sex crimes lawyer can keep the case in state court or minimize the scope of federal exposure.

I was contacted by police, but not charged—what should I do?

Call a lawyer immediately. Early representation can prevent mistakes, protect your rights, and position your case for the best possible outcome. Do not speak to police, agents, or investigators without legal counsel.

Areas We Serve in Wake County

We represent clients facing digital sex crime and exploitation charges across:

• Raleigh – Wake County Justice Center
• Cary – Wake County District Court and local law enforcement agencies
• Durham – Durham County courthouse, tech crimes division
• Chapel Hill – Orange County District and Superior Court

Patrick Roberts has successfully defended students, professionals, parents, and public officials against these sensitive accusations.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today

A child pornography charge doesn’t have to mean the end of your future. At Patrick Roberts Law, we treat every case with urgency, discretion, and the full force of legal strategy developed over two decades of experience.

You are not alone. Let us help you fight for your freedom, your rights, and your reputation.

Ready to schedule your confidential consultation? Contact us online or give us a call at 919-746-7206 today.