Former Official Pleads Not Guilty in Child Exploitation Case

Former Hanahan official Kevin Hedgpeth faces 23 federal charges including child sex abuse, trafficking minors, and producing/distributing child porn — allegedly posing as a teen online to lure victims aged 12-17 across South and North Carolina. He waived bail and remains in custody; prosecutors have identified 19 survivors. Authorities warn parents: predators now operate through kids’ devices, using apps like Venmo to exploit youth. If convicted, Hedgpeth could face life in prison. The case underscores the urgent need to protect children from online predators. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e7a7c94d1e45823b