On Wednesday July 22, 2026, Investigators with the Marion Police Department were informed of possible child pornography, which had been located on a personal computer. The reporting party was interviewed and advised Investigators that the material had been found on a desktop computer, located at 140 Ridgecrest Drive. It was determined through this interview that the computer belonged to Joseph Peter Torres (W/M, 36yoa). At the time of the interview, Torres was at work, and away from the home.
Investigator S. Adams contacted the State Bureau of Investigations, Internet Crimes Against Children Division (ICAC), and informed them of the report. Agents with the SBI then agreed to meet with Investigators at the Marion Police Department to assist in the investigation. A search warrant was obtained for the residence of 140 Ridgecrest Drive, as well as electronic devices located inside the home, and those belonging to Torres.
The search warrant was executed on July 22, 2026 and Torres was taken into custody, charged with the following crimes:
10 Counts of Felony Third Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Torres was placed into the custody of the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, under a $250,000 bond.
Further charges are pending regarding this matter.
We are grateful for our partnership with the SBI and the assistance of the ICAC unit for their help in this case.
Authority of the Chief of Police: Allen Lawrence
