The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, with the assistance from Homeland Security Investigations have arrested a Belton man following an investigation into the online sexual exploitation of minors.
According to Sheriff’s Office reports, on July 14, detectives executed a search warrant at a residence on Whiten Road, in Belton. During the search, investigators seized multiple electronic devices believed to contain evidence relevant to the investigation.
Jerry Ellison Ballew, Jr., 59, was taken into custody without incident. Ballew is a registered sex offender in the State of South Carolina. Ballew has been charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Third Degree and three counts of Sex Offender Registry Violation, First Offense.
The investigation remains active. Detectives will conduct a forensic examination of the seized electronic devices and additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses, the Sheriff’s Office said.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Anderson County Sheriff’s office at (864) 260-4400 or submit anonymous tips through the website at www.andersonsheriff.org.
