Johns Island, October 7, 2025
News Summary
John Lewis Cottrell, III, a 45-year-old man from Johns Island, has been arrested on 10 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. The investigation, which revealed the production of child sexual abuse materials, was led by the Charleston Police Department alongside the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Each count could lead to a sentence of up to 20 years, potentially totaling 200 years if convicted on all charges.
Johns Island Man Arrested on 10 Counts of First-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
Johns Island, South Carolina – John Lewis Cottrell, III, 45, has been arrested and charged with 10 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. The arrest was made by investigators from the Charleston Police Department on a Friday morning and is part of an ongoing investigation into child sexual abuse materials.
The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office is leading the prosecution of this case. Investigators from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that ultimately led them to Cottrell.
Cottrell is accused of producing child sexual abuse materials, making each count of first-degree sexual exploitation a felony. Each count carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. If Cottrell is convicted on all counts, the maximum possible concurrent sentence could total 200 years in prison.
Cottrell is currently being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center on a $1 million bond, with each charge amounting to $100,000. The investigation into Cottrell’s activities saw the collaboration of multiple agencies, including the Attorney General’s Office, Mount Pleasant Police Department, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Goose Creek Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Background on Child Exploitation Investigation
Child sexual exploitation is a serious crime with long-lasting implications for victims and society. Cases like this highlight the importance of vigilance and prompt action by law enforcement agencies in collaboration with non-profit organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in combating these heinous acts. The collaboration of various police departments and secret service within the community underscores a collective focus on protecting children from exploitation.
The use of internet technologies has increased the risks associated with such crimes, making the role of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force increasingly crucial. They play an essential role in identifying potential offenders through tips received from organizations aimed at preventing child abuse.
The charges against Cottrell mark a significant step in the ongoing efforts to address and combat child sexual abuse at both state and national levels. Ongoing attention to crimes against children remains a priority for law enforcement, ensuring that those who exploit minors are pursued and held accountable.
FAQ
Who was arrested on charges of sexual exploitation of a minor?
John Lewis Cottrell, III, 45, of Johns Island, has been arrested and charged with 10 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
What organization is leading the prosecution of the case?
The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office is leading the prosecution of this case.
What led to the arrest of John Lewis Cottrell III?
Investigators from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that led them to Cottrell.
What is the potential prison sentence for each count against Cottrell?
Each count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor is a felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
What is the total possible sentence if convicted on all counts?
The maximum possible concurrent sentence for the charges against Cottrell could total 200 years in prison.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | John Lewis Cottrell, III |
| Age | 45 |
| Charges | 10 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor |
| Max Prison Sentence Per Count | 20 years |
| Total Possible Sentence | 200 years |
| Bond Amount | $1 million |
| Collaboration Agencies | Attorney General’s Office, Mount Pleasant PD, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Goose Creek PD, Homeland Security Investigations |
| Location of Detention | Al Cannon Detention Center |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Johns Island Man Accused of Child Sex Exploitation
- ABC News 4: Johns Island Man Charged With Sexual Exploitation
- Count On 2: Johns Island Man Arrested on Charges
- WYFF 4: Man Arrested for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
- Wikipedia: Child Sexual Exploitation
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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