— A 16-year-old student at Freedom Christian Academy in Fayetteville is facing 45 sex charges after a months-long investigation by the Internet Crimes against Children Task Force.

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office said deputies received a tip in February alleging that a person was enticing children for sexual acts via the social media apps Instagram and kik.

Authorities said that a juvenile sent compromising photos to someone he believed to be female. He was then told to disclose his Instagram password or the photos would be sent to his classmates and parents.

An investigation into the victim’s cell phone led authorities to William Alan Buie, who attended school with the victim.

Buie, of 910 Chestnut Street, was arrested Wednesday after an investigation of his computer and electronic devices. He was charged with 13 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation, 16 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation, 13 counts of third-degree sexual exploitation and three counts of extortion.

Authorities said that multiple juveniles had been victims of “sextortion” by Buie.

Buie was being held at the Cumberland County Detention Center under $215,000 secured bond. He is scheduled to appear in court Thursday afternoon.