UNION COUNTY, N.C. – Four men have been arrested in an undercover operation targeting individuals attempting to sexually exploit minors online, the Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) Special Victims Unit announced.
The arrests follow an ongoing investigation into online predators using chat rooms and social media to solicit minors. Starting in February, detectives posed as minors under 16 years old, attracting multiple adult offenders who attempted to solicit explicit images and arrange in-person meetings.
Three suspects were caught at a prearranged location in Monroe, while a fourth, Brian Ganiel (41), was tracked down and arrested near his home in Four Oaks, NC after failing to show up at the meeting spot.
Among the suspects, David Curlee (64, Charlotte), a registered sex offender with prior child sex crime convictions, was found in possession of child sexual abuse material. Another suspect, Richard Tecuapa (21, Monroe), also had exploitation material on his devices, leading to multiple felony charges.
Suspects and Charges:
David Curlee (64, Charlotte)
Felony Solicitation of a Child by Computer
10 counts of Felony Second-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
Registered sex offender for previous child sex crimes
Secured bond: $1,000,000
Richard Tecuapa (21, Monroe)
Felony Solicitation of a Child by Computer
10 counts of Felony Second-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
Secured bond: $1,000,000
Brian Ganiel (41, Four Oaks, NC)
Felony Solicitation of a Child by Computer
Secured bond: $500,000
Jon Turner (41, Waxhaw, NC)
Felony Solicitation of a Child by Computer
Secured bond: $500,000
Forensic analysis of seized electronic devices is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed. Authorities urge parents to monitor their children’s online activity and report suspicious behavior to law enforcement.
