By Crime Vault Magazine Staff Published: February 22, 2026 Charleston, South Carolina – In a shocking turn of events that has rocked the judicial system, suspended Charleston County Magistrate Judge James B. Gosnell Jr., 68, faces six federal charges related to the possession, receipt, and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Federal authorities allege that Gosnell possessed hundreds of videos and images depicting minors, including infants and toddlers, engaged in disturbing sexual acts, some involving rape and torture.
Gosnell, who had served on the bench for nearly three decades, was arrested on September 16, 2025, following a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that linked him to overseas transactions for purchasing the illegal material. Investigators reportedly discovered a USB flash drive in his possession containing the explicit content during a search of his West Ashley home. The indictment, partially unsealed in October 2025, details charges including possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors, attempted receipt of child pornography, conspiracy to receive and distribute child pornography, two counts of receipt of child pornography, and one count of distribution.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Gosnell had presided over cases involving individuals charged with similar child sex crimes during his tenure as a magistrate. This revelation has raised serious questions about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of past rulings. South Carolina Chief Justice John Kittredge suspended Gosnell immediately following his arrest.
In a recent development, jailhouse calls released in February 2026 reveal Gosnell maintaining his innocence, claiming he was the victim of a hack. Evidence presented by prosecutors, however, suggests otherwise, including allegations that Gosnell not only possessed the material but also claimed in communications to have abused children in his neighborhood.
The case has expanded to include a co-defendant, John Badger Thorpe, 63, of Florida, who was arrested in November 2025. Thorpe is accused of conspiring with Gosnell to exchange and distribute the child sexual abuse materials, including mailing a USB drive back to South Carolina. Thorpe faces multiple charges, including possession, receipt, and distribution of child pornography, and is set to be transferred to South Carolina for further proceedings.
If convicted, Gosnell could face more than 20 years in federal prison, with mandatory minimum sentences applying to several counts. He has pleaded not guilty and will remain detained pending trial, as a federal judge deemed him a flight risk and a danger to the community.
This case underscores the pervasive issue of child exploitation and serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law. Crime Vault Magazine will continue to monitor developments in this ongoing investigation.
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