UNION COUNTY, Ga. – A Union County man was taken into custody Wednesday following an investigation that led to multiple felony charges involving child sexual abuse material, according to the Union County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff’s officials said the investigation began on January 7, 2026, after deputies received a report involving Joshua Bowers. A detective specially trained in handling crimes against children conducted an independent investigation into the matter.

As part of that investigation, authorities executed a search warrant on Bowers’ cellphone, where illegal child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was reportedly discovered. Based on the evidence obtained, eight arrest warrants were issued Wednesday, January 14, charging Bowers with Sexual Exploitation of Children.

Bowers was arrested the same day and is currently being held at the Union County Jail.

In a statement, Sheriff Shawn Dyer emphasized the importance of allowing trained investigators to handle sensitive cases involving children, noting that professional and lawful investigations are critical to ensuring offenders are held accountable in court. He also thanked the public for its concern regarding child safety and encouraged anyone with credible information related to criminal activity to report it directly to law enforcement.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Once completed, the case file will be submitted to the Enotah Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 706-439-6066.