Andrew Swenson, 42, of Raleigh, was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation on Mar. 10 in downtown Raleigh on a federal warrant. The arrest followed the signing of a federal criminal complaint by a U.S. magistrate judge, which accuses Swenson of soliciting one minor online and traveling to sexually abuse another minor.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about child exploitation facilitated through online platforms and underscores law enforcement efforts to address these crimes.
According to the complaint, Swenson met a thirteen-year-old girl online after another individual advertised her for sexual abuse. He communicated with her using social media platforms Zangi and Discord and persuaded her to send images involving child sexual abuse material. Authorities say he planned to drive to Nebraska, pick up the girl, and bring her back to North Carolina for further abuse.
During a search at Swenson’s residence, investigators found bags containing rope, zip ties, and duct tape in his bedroom. His roommate told authorities that Swenson often traveled out of town for sexual encounters with women he met online. The FBI also discovered that Swenson had recently visited a woman in New York who had an infant baby; during this visit, he allegedly produced images and videos depicting him sexually abusing the infant.
“Those who prey on children and solicit them to produce child abuse sexual material are morally reprehensible and will be held accountable for their heinous crimes,” said Reid Davis, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina. “The FBI remains committed to protecting our children.”
Swenson faces charges including coercion and enticement of a minor as well as production of child pornography. If convicted on all counts, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of fifteen years in prison and could receive up to life imprisonment.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announced the arrest. The investigation is being conducted by the FBI along with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, Raleigh Police Department, and Apex Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin C. Blondel is prosecuting the case.
