Edgefield Man Faces Second Arrest for Distributing Child Exploitation Material

A South Carolina man is back behind bars after investigators found he allegedly uploaded child sexual abuse material online—his second arrest for similar charges in just over a year.

Repeat Offender Caught in Online Sting

According to the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office, 36-year-old Kenneth Ray Ouzts was arrested Wednesday following an investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Detectives say Ouzts uploaded explicit material involving minors to the internet, prompting his arrest on charges of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.

This isn't Ouzts’ first brush with the law:

• March 2023: Arrested for similar charges after authorities tracked illegal uploads.
• June 2023: Released on bond, awaiting trial for the initial charges.
• May 2024: Re-arrested after new evidence surfaced linking him to additional illegal uploads.

Ongoing Investigation & Public Warning

The South Carolina Attorney General's Office is leading the prosecution, emphasizing that their ICAC Task Force works closely with federal agencies to track and apprehend predators exploiting children online.

Sheriff Jody Rowland warned parents to monitor their children's online activity, stating:

"Predators like Ouzts often operate in the shadows of the internet, using deceptive tactics to exploit vulnerable minors. We urge parents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behavior."

What Happens Next?

Ouzts remains in custody at the Edgefield County Detention Center pending a bond hearing. If convicted, he faces:

1. Up to 10 years in prison for each count of sexual exploitation.
2. Mandatory registration as a sex offender.
3. Potential federal charges due to the interstate nature of the crimes.

What Do You Think?

This case raises serious questions about online safety and repeat offenders. Share your thoughts:

• Should repeat offenders like Ouzts face life sentences for distributing child exploitation material?
• Is the justice system doing enough to monitor convicted predators after release?
• Would stricter parental controls on devices help prevent these crimes?
• Does law enforcement need more funding to track online predators, or are current measures sufficient?

Breaking Now News will continue following this case and provide updates as they become available.