ASHLAND, Ky. (February 9, 2024) – With the assistance of Ashland Police Department and Russell Police Department, The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 14 located, interviewed, and arrested Carl Hayes, 46, of Ashland, on charges related to a child sexual abuse material investigation.

Hayes was interviewed as the result of an undercover Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation. KSP Post 14 began the investigation after receiving an investigative referral, indicating the suspect had received sexually explicit images of minors on a social media account.

The investigation resulted in the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Ashland, KY on February 9, 2024. Equipment used to facilitate the crime was seized and will be taken to a forensic laboratory for examination.

Hayes is currently charged with 1 count of possessing matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance. This charge is a Class-C felony punishable by five to ten years in prison. He is also charged with 1 count of possessing matter portraying a minor over the age of 12 in a sexual performance, which is a Class-D felony punishable by one to five years in prison. Hayes was lodged in the Boyd County Detention Center.

# # #