James Thomas Riddle, 68, of Old Mocksville Road in Statesville, has been arrested by the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office on felony charges of secret peeping and third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began on March 18 when a parent reported finding a trail camera hidden and aimed at their child’s bedroom. Upon reviewing the contents of the device, the parent discovered several nude images of their child. The parent believed a family member may have been responsible.
Detectives conducted interviews, analyzed electronic devices, and reviewed footage from the camera, which was reportedly located inside the home. Based on their investigation, authorities identified Riddle, who was known to the family, as the suspect. Investigators allege that Riddle had captured multiple explicit images of the juvenile.
Riddle was taken into custody on April 2 and booked into the Iredell County Detention Center under a $75,000 secured bond. He is scheduled to appear in Iredell County District Court on April 21.