Roanoke Rapids police officer facing child exploitation charges

ROANOKE RAPIDS, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Roanoke Rapids police officer has been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation related to alleged involvement with child sex abuse material.

At the time of his arrest, 31-year-old Isaac Nielsen, was employed by the police department in Roanoke Rapids.

According to the FBI, in May 2025, an undercover officer engaged in a chat with a user on a website known for promoting user-generated sexual content.

During those conversations, Nielsen allegedly distributed child pornography to the undercover officer and discussed his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children.

The undercover officer's agency determined that the user was located in North Carolina and notified the FBI.

On December 1, the FBI identified Nielsen as the user, got an arrest warrant and arrested him.

He is charged with the distribution and possession of child pornography.

If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to 30 years' in prison.

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