Columbia County, FL Arrest: Man Faces New Child Sex Charges

Columbia County, FL – A 66-year-old North Florida man who had been released on bond in a child sexual abuse material case was arrested again after authorities in another county obtained a warrant alleging additional offenses involving someone he believed was a minor.

According to the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, detectives assigned to the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force began investigating James Martin Alden in May after receiving information alleging he was distributing child sexual abuse material on social media.

Investigators said the initial case led to probable cause for charges involving possession and distribution of child pornography and use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony. Alden was arrested at his Fort White residence Aug. 31. Authorities said firearms, ammunition and electronic devices were also recovered during a search.

The sheriff's office said Alden, a convicted felon, was released after receiving a $150,000 bond.

While Alden was out on bond, Alachua County Sheriff's Office investigators notified Columbia County detectives of a separate investigation. Authorities allege Alden sexually communicated with an undercover detective he believed was a minor, sent obscene material and planned to meet the person for sex.

Alachua County detectives subsequently obtained an arrest warrant on charges including using a computer to solicit a child, transmitting obscene material to a minor and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, according to authorities. A judge ordered Alden held without bond in that case.

Columbia County deputies arrested Alden again Sept. 17. Authorities said searches of his electronic devices uncovered additional suspected child sexual abuse material and other illegal content, resulting in further anticipated charges.

The allegations remain subject to court proceedings, and an arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt.