CROSS, S.C. – A Berkeley County man has been charged with first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor following a disturbing video call incident involving a 15-year-old girl, according to an affidavit released by the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office.
Karl William Wade, 44, of Cross is accused of coercing and encouraging the minor to engage in sexually explicit behavior during a video call on or around September 16, 2025. The affidavit alleges that Wade knowingly initiated a sexually charged conversation with the victim, whom he had known for approximately 18 months and met in person on several occasions.
During the call, deputies say Wade allegedly commented that the victim was “about to reach the age of consent” and claimed that “age didn’t matter.” After the call ended, Wade reportedly requested photos of “everything,” later clarifying that he was asking for images of the victim’s body. The victim interpreted this as a request for sexually explicit nude photos and refused.
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According to the affidavit, Wade then accused the victim of “flirting” and urged her not to disclose their conversation or his request. He later traveled to the victim’s residence but did not make further contact.
Deputies arrested Wade on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. He was booked at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center.
The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office assisted with this arrest.
