Columbus, IN— A Columbus man was arrested on felony charges after Columbus police officers received a tip Friday morning about a man sending pornographic images of a child as well as descriptions of criminal sexual acts involving a child on a social media site. Several detectives from the CPD Criminal Investigations Division were assigned to the case and began collecting evidence which led them to Nicholas Duane Hickman, 39, of Columbus. A search warrant was also served and additional evidence was seized by investigators.
After detectives interviewed Hickman, he was arrested on preliminary charges of Child Exploitation, a Level 4 Felony and Sexual Battery, a Level 6 Felony. Hickman is currently being held at the Bartholomew County Jail without bond on a 48-hour hold as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the Columbus Police Department at 812-376-2600. Tips and information can be left anonymously. Indiana law requires those who suspect a child to be a victim of abuse or neglect to report it to authorities.
The Department of Child Services is assisting with this case.
