FRUITLAND -- A 64-year-old Wicomico County man has been indicted on 228 charges.

In February 2024, a thorough investigation commenced, led by Detectives from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division in collaboration with the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center. The focus of the investigation centered on allegations of sexual abuse of a minor child by Thompson.

Subsequent findings from the investigation uncovered deeply concerning evidence of prolonged abuse perpetrated by Thompson against the minor over the span of several years.

On April 15, 2024, the culmination of diligent investigative efforts led to the presentation of findings before a Grand Jury in Wicomico County, Maryland. As a result, James Arthur Thompson has been formally charged with an extensive list of offenses, including:

• Sex Abuse of a minor-House/Family Member,
• Sex Abuse of a Minor,
• Rape in the First Degree,
• Rape in the Second Degree,
• Sex Offense in the Second Degree,
• Sex Offense in the Third Degree,
• Sex Trafficking-Explicit Performance,
• Sex Trafficking-Take/Cause,
• Sexual Solicitation of a Minor,
• Cause another to Engage in Sex Act-Threat,
• Cause another to Engage in Sex ProductionThreat,
• Stalking,
• Electronic Communication: Harass a Minor,
• Telephone Misuse: Obscene,
• Camera Surveillance of Private area withPrurient Intent,
• Child Porn-Film in Sex Act,
• Child Porn-Minor as Sex Subject,
• Possession of Child Pornography.

This results in a total of 228 charges against Thompson.

It should be noted that Thompson is currently a registered sex offender. Currently, Thompson is in custody at the
Wicomico County Detention Center, held without bond. His initial appearance before the Circuit Court of Wicomico
County is scheduled for May 10, 2024.

As with all legal proceedings, it is essential to remember that all subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty
in a court of law. Anyone with information can contact Detective Chaffey at 410-548-4891 ext. 238