Leland man charged with multiple counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A 54-year-old Leland man has been charged with multiple felony counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor following an investigation by the Leland Police Department.

According to arrest documents, William Bartley Smith was arrested on a warrant issued July 2, 2026, in Brunswick County. The alleged offenses are listed as occurring on or about March 22, 2026.

Court records allege that Smith used the messaging application Telegram to distribute and receive child sexual abuse material with an individual identified by the username “HUMPHREYS.”

The arrest warrant includes six felony counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. According to the charging documents:

• Counts 1 and 2 allege Smith distributed visual depictions of child sexual abuse to another Telegram user.
• Counts 3 through 6 allege Smith knowingly received or solicited child sexual abuse material from the same Telegram user.

The charging documents describe the files as videos and images depicting minors engaged in sexual activity.

No additional information about Smith’s court appearance, bond, or legal representation was immediately available from the charging documents.