⏱ 2 min read
A convicted sex offender, James Osborne, 36, of Wilmington, was arrested by the FBI for illegally voting in North Carolina elections. Osborne, who is required to register as a sex offender, cast ballots in the November 5, 2024, presidential election and the February 25, 2026, primary election, despite being ineligible to vote due to his felony conviction for possession of child pornography. According to the federal complaint, Osborne falsely claimed he was not serving a felony sentence when he registered to vote and cast his ballots.
Osborne’s arrest is the result of an investigation by the FBI, which is committed to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Petracca. U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle announced the arrest, stating that the FBI will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals who attempt to subvert the democratic process.
Osborne faces charges of making false statements on voter registration or ballot, which carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison for each violation. The FBI’s commitment to election security is evident in this case, and it serves as a warning to others who would attempt to illegally participate in the electoral process.
The investigation and prosecution of Osborne demonstrate the importance of protecting the integrity of the electoral process. The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work together to ensure that those who attempt to subvert the democratic process are held accountable.
Related Federal Cases
- James Owen Hagins, Child Pornography Distribution, North Carolina 2024 · Puerto Rico
- James Matthew Shelton, Online Child Exploitation, North Carolina 2023 · Kentucky
- Clarence Brown Jr., Child Porn Relapse, North Carolina, 2023 · Connecticut
- Jordan Lee Adams, Child Pornography Production, North Carolina · Virginia
- Jonathan Wheeler Johnston, Receipt and Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography, North Carolina 2023 · Michigan
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: North Carolina
- Location: NC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
