VIRGIE — The Electronic Crime Branch of the Kentucky State Police apprehended a Pike County man Thursday in connection with child exploitation materials.

Gary Don Hampton, 46, was detained at a Virgie residence following an undercover investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children task force.

The investigation commenced after the Electronic Crime Branch identified the suspect allegedly using social media platforms to engage in sexual conduct, believing he was communicating with a minor.

Equipment was confiscated during the arrest and is currently under examination at KSP’s forensic lab.

Hampton is charged with five counts of possessing matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance and an additional 15 counts of possessing matter portraying a minor over the age of 12 in a sexual performance.

He is currently held at the Pike County Detention Center.

Owning or viewing materials depicting minors under 12 is a Class-C felony, with penalties ranging from five to 10 years. For materials of minors aged 12 or older, it’s a Class-D felony, leading to one to five years of imprisonment.

The investigation is ongoing.