Fort Pierce City Commissioner James Taylor, a staunch MAGA Republican, has been charged with 24 felony counts related to the online solicitation of a minor, following a multi-state investigation into child exploitation.
The arrest was carried out by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, which executed search warrants at two separate Fort Pierce locations tied to the case. The charges stem from a report initially filed in Illinois in August 2024, where a mother told local police that her 13-year-old daughter had been contacted on Snapchat by an adult man—communication that began when the child was just 12 years old.
Authorities say the conversations quickly escalated into sexually explicit messages. The suspect also allegedly sent the minor nude photographs of himself. Detectives in Illinois traced the suspect’s digital footprint to Florida and contacted the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit in May 2025.
After reviewing the case and examining digital evidence, Florida investigators identified the suspect as James Taylor, an elected official in Fort Pierce. Investigators say they were able to collect enough evidence to pursue felony charges under Florida law.
Taylor, 38, is now facing the following charges:
Six counts of transmission of materials harmful to minors by electronic equipment
Six counts of transfer or display of obscenity to a minor
Six counts of harmful communication to a minor
Six counts of lewd computer solicitation
Four counts of lewd computer solicitation of a child
Two counts of solicitation of transmission of child pornography by electronic device or equipment
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is ongoing and encourages anyone with information or who believes they may have been a victim to come forward. Tips can be provided directly to the Criminal Investigations Division at 772-462-7300, or anonymously through Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-TIPS.
In response to the arrest, the City of Fort Pierce issued a statement acknowledging the situation:
“The City of Fort Pierce is aware of the recent arrest of Commissioner James Taylor. We understand that this development may raise concerns within our community, and we want to reassure our residents that we remain committed to serving the public with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
While this matter is serious, it is important to recognize that the City Commission operates as a unified governing body. City functions will continue without disruption. Our dedicated staff remains focused on delivering essential services, maintaining public trust, and upholding the mission and values that guide the City of Fort Pierce.
As this is an active investigation, and in the interest of respecting due process, the City will not be issuing further comment at this time. Any inquiries or questions regarding the investigation should be directed to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.”
Taylor has not issued a public statement since his arrest.
