Former Hertford mayor pro tem pleads guilty to child sex crimes

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. (WITN) - A former Eastern Carolina elected official has pleaded guilty to multiple child sex crimes.

Quentin Jackson made the plea Monday in Pasquotank County. He admitted to statutory rape, two counts of statutory sexual offense, two counts of first-degree sexual exploitation, and two counts of taking indecent liberties with a minor.

The 39-year-old Hertford man was arrested by the SBI back in 2022 for the crimes. He is a former mayor pro tem and former councilman for the town of Hertford.

The victim was 15-years-old at the time, according to the district attorney.

“I am so very proud of the victim for having the courage to first come forward and report what occurred, and for the courage to see the case through, said District Attorney Jeff Cruden. “Luckily, her mother was by her side and supported her through the entire process.”

Sentencing was delayed until next month.