Cherokee County, N.C., man charged in sexual assault

Jerry Lee Hobbs
Jerry Lee Hobbs
photo Jerry Lee Hobbs

A 47-year-old Cherokee County, N.C., man was arrested by authorities in Murphy in connection with a sexual assault reported on Labor Day.

Cherokee County Sheriff Derrick Palmer said in a statement on the arrest that Jerry Lee Hobbs, who gave a Cherokee County address, is being held on a $100,000 secure bond on a charge of forcible rape.

"During the investigation information was gathered that allowed the investigator to develop probable cause which was presented to the North Carolina Magistrate who issued a warrant for the arrest of Hobbs," Palmer said.

Authorities learned that Hobbs was staying at a camp site in the Ranger community near Beach Creek and he was taken into custody without incident.

Palmer said Hobbs has an upcoming date in Cherokee County District Court.

Because of the sensitive nature of the incident no further information is expected to be released from this office, officials said.

"This is a very personal crime and I am glad to see it come to a close quickly," Palmer said. "Although a heinous crime, a bright spot, you might say, is that our Victim Advocate

Office and Reach of Cherokee County Inc. worked hand in hand to provide much needed services in this difficult situation."

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