It's an unsettling reversal when a judge, traditionally the enforcer of law, becomes the accused. Judge James B. Gosnell, known for presiding over Dylann Roof's bond hearing, finds himself in such a predicament, facing severe allegations of possessing child sexual abuse material.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led Homeland Security investigators to uncover financial transactions linked to a child pornography distributor in the United Kingdom. The transactions were traced back to an account associated with Gosnell’s phone number, address, and email. Subsequent searches revealed a flash drive at Gosnell's residence containing distressing videos and images of minors, including infants, in explicit sexual activities.

This isn't Gosnell's first brush with controversy. In 2015, he was reprimanded for making racially insensitive remarks in court, an incident that stirred significant public and media backlash.

Efforts by Gosnell to secure release on bond were thwarted when prosecutors raised concerns about his safety due to his prior role in incarcerating many individuals who might be hostile towards him in detention. However, the bond court judge assured that the Marshal’s Office along with Charleston County Sheriff’s detention officers would ensure Gosnell's safety in custody. A detention hearing was scheduled to further address his custodial terms.

As the legal community and the public grapple with these developments, Gosnell awaits his next court appearance, confined and likely contemplating the gravity of the accusations against him. The case continues to unfold, marking a stark fall from grace for the once-respected magistrate.

For further details on this case, please refer to the DOJ’s full report and the latest updates from Live 5 News.