Sevier County man charged with rape in case involving minor

A Sevier County man has been charged with rape following an investigation alleging he engaged in repeated sexual misconduct with a juvenile relative.

According to court records, 64-year-old Jacky Pearce, Jr. is facing a single count of rape, a Class Y felony. The charge was officially filed in the Sevier County Circuit Court last month.

Authorities allege Pearce sexually abused a minor on more than one occasion in June of this year. The arrest affidavit and a prior investigation by the Arkansas Crimes Against Children’s Division of the Arkansas State Police in 2021 suggest the abuse may have occurred over a period of several years. The 2021 investigation concluded without any formal charges against Pearce.

The Sevier County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation in late June of 2023 following a report of further sexual misconduct. The case was accepted for further investigation by the Arkansas State Police. The victim of this investigation was identified as the same relative named in the 2021 report.

An arrest warrant for Pearce was issued on Sept. 20th. During his arraignment last week, Pearce pleaded not guilty to the rape offense. He also posted a $100,000 bond.

Pearce is scheduled to reappear in court on Dec. 7 for a pre-trial hearing.

As a Class Y felony, the charge of rape carries a sentence of 25-40 years in prison, or life, upon a conviction.