18 year old charged with sexual assault of a young child

MURPHY, North Carolina (WDEF) – A teenager from Murphy, North Carolina has been charged with sexually assaulting a minor.

The young child was assaulted in the Hiwassee Dam Community of Cherokee County.

Investigators charged 18 year old Harry James Verner last week.

The specific charges are First Degree Statutory Sexual Offense with a Child and Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child.

Sheriff Derrick Palmer stated “We thank the Cherokee County Schools, and the District Attorney’s Office for their cooperation and assistance in this investigation. These are difficult cases for all concerned. Because of the age of the victim and the nature of the crime there will be no further press releases from this office.”