Clark County Sheriff's Deputies and agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation took a New Carlisle man into custody Sunday morning after executing search warrants at his home and his business.

James Risner, of Prentice Dr., was charged with pandering sexually-oriented material involving a minor. He appeared in Clark County Municipal Court on Monday morning, and charges were dropped in lieu of Federal charges. He was to appear in Federal court Monday afternoon.

Municipal court records state:

The Defendant, James Risner, did create, record, photograph, film, develop, reproduce, or publish material showing a minor participating or engaging in sexual activity, masturbation, or bestiallity.

James Risner was charged with one count of Pandering Sexually Oriented material involving a minor and placed in Clark County Jail. Additional charges will follow pending further investigation.”

Risner is the owner of Rescue 1 Custom Vinyls at 412 N. Main St.

The execution of the warrant at Risner's home was low-key, according to neighbor Tim Barker. "I woke up to activity on the street. I went outside, saw a man with a gun and went back inside," Barker said. He saw no marked vehicles during the execution of the warrant.

Risner was also a member of the Bethel Township Fire Department, having been hired recently, according to Township Trustee Nancy Brown. "We do background checks on all prospective firefighters, and there was nothing in his background to indicate any problems." Brown said that the township is awaiting advice from the Prosecutor's office to determine their next course of action.

The Bethel Township Trustees will meet for a special session before tonight’s joint government meeting.

The New Carlisle News will keep you updated as this story develops.