Murphy Man Sentenced in Assault Case

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.

Murphy , NC — William Kraig Moran, 53, of Murphy pled guilty to Statutory Rape in Cherokee County Superior Court presided over by the Honorable Gary Gavenus on November 13th , 2017

In July 2017 , the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint alleging that Moran had sexually assaulted a minor child. The joint investigation was conducted involving the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Department of Social Services, HAVEN Child Advocacy Center, and the 30th , District Attorney’s Office. The joint investigation culminated in the arrest of Moran.

Judge Gavenus sentenced Moran to a maximum of 21 years and 8 months in prison, and he will serve at least 13 years and 10 months before he is eligible for release. Upon his release from prison Moran will be monitored by a GPS satellite tracking system and he will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life.

“This conviction keeps a very dangerous child predator off the streets while he serves a lengthy prison sentence and sends a strong message to the community that the District Attorney’s Office places the highest priority on protecting our children. I commend all of the dedicated professionals who partner with the District Attorney’s Office to give a strong voice to our most vulnerable victims. Congratulations on a job well done”, said District Attorney Ashley Welch.

Sheriff Palmer said, “Again, great team work by some very dedicated individuals. We echo District Attorney Welch’s sentiments and will continue to fight those who attempt to rob our youth of their innocence . ”

Sheriff Palmer encourages anyone that has information on this crime or any other to report it. To report crime in Cherokee County you can call the anonymous tip line at 828-837-1344 or email a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov or call 911 if you observe a crime in progress.