Moore County man arrested on child sexual exploitation charges, deputies say

ABERDEEN, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Moore County man was arrested on child sexual exploitation charges, according to the sheriff's office.

Following an investigation, deputies conducted a search warrant Thursday at a home on Sand Pit Road in Aberdeen. There, forensic specialists uncovered several illegal files involving minors.

Wayne Francis Sands Sr., 61, of Aberdeen was charged with five counts of felony second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and five counts of felony third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.

He is being held at the Moore County Detention Center under a $125,000 secured bond.

His first court appearance is set for Oct. 8, 2025 at Moore County District Court.

This is an ongoing investigation, and additional charges are expected.