On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, WCBD News 2 reported that suspended Charleston County Magistrate Judge James Gosnell Jr. will remain in custody after a federal court appearance.
Gosnell, 68, was suspended by the South Carolina Supreme Court on Tuesday following his arrest on charges related to the possession of child sexual abuse material.
U.S. District Judge Molly Cherry deferred a decision on bond until a hearing scheduled for Monday.
Gosnell’s attorney, Lionel Lofton, expressed disappointment with the decision but affirmed their intention to continue the legal battle. “So we’ll come back Monday and fight again,” Lofton said.
The U.S. Department of Justice stated that the Department of Homeland Security received a tip concerning an account linked to Gosnell making payments to a distributor of child sexual abuse material located in the United Kingdom. A subsequent search of Gosnell’s residence by law enforcement agents led to the discovery of a flash drive containing numerous images and videos depicting children in sexually explicit situations.
Currently, Gosnell is being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center. His legal team raised concerns about his safety within the facility, given his past role in incarcerating inmates there. They stated they are collaborating with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office to ensure his protection while he is detained.
Charleston County officials confirmed on Tuesday that Gosnell’s access to county facilities and devices has been terminated following his arrest. His pending cases will be reassigned to other judges.
Source: WCBD News 2
