Coweta man arrested in child exploitation probe

One count of sexual exploitation of children. That is the charge Robert Wilkinson faces after Coweta County deputies arrested him late last week. The arrest happened in the driveway of his home. Officials said a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children started the process. That tip flagged Wilkinson's computer for holding child pornography or child sexual abuse material.

The Coweta County Sheriff's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit led the investigation. Detectives spent several weeks gathering evidence before moving for a warrant. They waited outside Wilkinson's residence until he arrived from work. Deputies then took him into custody. During the arrest, officers removed his safety glasses and airport credentials.

Wilkinson works for a major airline in Atlanta. The sheriff's office confirmed his employment. Investigators stated the alleged crimes did not occur at his workplace. They also said the case is unrelated to his job duties. The focus of the probe is his online activity, not his professional responsibilities.

Deputies seized every electronic device found in the home. Detectives plan to review all stored digital data. They have not yet disclosed what specific files they recovered. Officials have not indicated whether the forensic review will lead to additional charges. The investigation remains active as detectives analyze the seized hardware.