Whiteville man charged in child sexual abuse material investigation

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — A Whiteville man has been charged following an investigation into the alleged online sexual exploitation of minors, according to the Whiteville Police Department.

Michael Smith Green was arrested May 28 and charged with felony conspiracy to obtain or purchase child sexual abuse material.

The investigation began in April when investigators with the Whiteville Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force identified Bitcoin transactions and online activity that authorities say were consistent with the purchase of child sexual abuse material.

Police said investigators conducted a digital investigation that led to evidence supporting the execution of a search warrant at Green’s residence.

Authorities did not release additional details about the investigation.