A UNC sophomore has been charged with a dozen counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor after authorities allegedly found child pornography in his possession.

An arrest report shows 19-year-old Benjamin Swastek, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, was arrested on Friday, February 16, following an investigation by UNC Police. Documents show the investigation began on February 7.

Public social media accounts in Swastek’s name list him as a sophomore computer science major and a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. Fraternity members told WCHL that Swastek had been suspended from the fraternity in January due to academic reasons.

Swastek is accused of knowingly duplicating material “containing a visual representation of a minor engaged in a sexual activity.” Arrest warrants detail at least six videos Swastek allegedly duplicated which all contained girls between the ages of seven and 13 engaged in various sex acts.

Swastek’s computer was seized during his arrest, according to police records. Warrants show that the first known alleged incident occurred on April 15, 2017.

Swastek was released from the Orange County Jail on the day of his arrest after posting a $50,000 bond, according to law enforcement officials. He then made his first court appearance on Monday, February 19.

UNC officials said there was no public information available when asked about Swastek’s enrollment status at the university.

Swastek is facing 12 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and is due back in court on April 13, according to court documents.

If convicted on all charges, records show that Swastek could face a maximum of 98 months in prison. A message requesting comment left with the attorney listed as representing Swastek was not immediately returned.

Photo via Orange County Sheriff’s Office

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