Update: Rutherford County Man Charged in Child Exploitation Case; Released on Bond

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has issued an official statement regarding 32-year-old Randy Wayne Whitener Jr., a Rutherfordton resident, days after WCAB News exclusively reported his arrest. Whitener has been released on bond and is currently awaiting trial.

According to the sheriff’s office, investigators were first notified by Polk County Middle School officials regarding Whitener for inappropriately contacting a 13-year-old via social media. This prompted an immediate investigation.

On September 10, 2025, Whitener was arrested and initially charged with:

• Solicitation of a child by computer or certain electronic devices to commit an unlawful sex act. 

• Taking indecent liberties with children. 

• Dissemination of material to minors under the age of 16.

  
  

Whitener posted a $36,000 bond and was released the same day.

As the investigation continued, additional evidence led to further charges, resulting in a second arrest on September 17, 2025. New charges include:

• Seven counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.

• Eleven counts of obscene literature and exhibitions.

• Eleven counts of taking indecent liberties with children.

  
  

A secured bond of $450,000 was issued on September 19, 2025, which Whitener posted, leading to his release pending trial. 

Polk County Sheriff Tim Wright emphasized the importance of online safety. “Today, more than ever, it’s important for parents to have conversations with their children about online safety," he said. "Remind them to protect their personal information and to always report inappropriate behavior.”

Detectives are continuing to investigate and urge anyone with information about the case or potential additional victims to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 828-894-3001.