Morganton man charged with Sex Crimes

A 17-month investigation leads to an arrest of a Morganton man for Child Sex Crimes. In February 2022 Morganton Department of Public Safety received a report that Rodney Shawn Lane had sexually abused a male juvenile. During the course of the investigation more than a dozen interviews were conducted in three different states. The investigative efforts identified a second victim who also alleged sexual abuse by Lane. The crimes were perpetuated between the years of 1998 to 2001 and both victims alleged numerous sexual assaults during that time.

On Monday, July 24, 2023 warrants were issued on Lane for two counts of First Degree Statutory Sexual Offense. Lane was arrested at his residence without incident. The investigation is still ongoing and additional charges may be pending. If anyone has any additional information regarding this investigation, please contact Morganton Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division.

Lane was placed in the Burke County Jail under a $200,000 secure bond with an initial court appearance on July 27, 2023. All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.