On Thursday, June 9, 2022, deputies with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office arrested Lawrence William Wurtele, 31, of Goldsboro, on charges of second degree exploitation of a minor.

This investigation was initiated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations. The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office also assisted with the investigation through their participation in the North Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

As a result of this investigation, Wurtele was arrested at his residence and charged with 9 counts of Felony Second Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. Bond was set at $450,000 secured.