At Our Rescue, we know that the right tools can make all the difference in stopping child predators. That’s why we provide essential technology and training to law enforcement agencies around the world—including here in the U.S. In Carteret County, North Carolina, equipment donated by Our Rescue recently played a key role in multiple investigations involving the exploitation of minors.
Putting Tools to Work on the Front Lines
The Carteret County Sheriff’s Office, with support from local and regional partners, made several arrests tied to online crimes against children. In one case, Leonard Eugene Mathiews, 57, was arrested following an undercover investigation by police. Law enforcement were able to recover critical digital evidence, thanks in part to the forensic equipment donated by Our Rescue. That evidence helped establish probable cause and quickly move the case forward.
Officials say Mathiews is being charged with six counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in relation to possessing and distributing child sexual abuse materials (CSAM).
In a separate case, three individuals were arrested for sexual offenses with minors. These arrests came after an in-depth investigation where technology—again, provided through Our Rescue’s partnership—helped authorities identify devices, preserve evidence, and pursue charges.
Standing with Law Enforcement
In 2024, the NCMEC CyberTipline received 20.5 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation. These recent cases in Carteret County are a reminder of how vital well-equipped, well-trained investigators are in the fight. Every arrest represents a step toward accountability and, more importantly, a step toward safety for our kids.
We’re proud to support the dedicated professionals at the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office and commend their commitment to justice. By placing advanced investigative tools in the hands of skilled teams, we help ensure that dangerous individuals are stopped—and that survivors have a path toward healing.
Together, with the continued support of our donors and partners, we remain committed to ending child exploitation wherever it happens. Donate today to Join the Fight!