A Texas man, Wilbert James Jones Jr., has been sentenced to life in prison for three counts of sexual assault of a child after repeatedly sexually assaulting and impregnating a girl over a decade ago. The Ellis County District Attorney’s Office announced the sentence, stating that Jones, 57 years old, had groomed the 15-year-old victim after being released from prison for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
During the grooming process, Jones made sexualized comments to the minor and touched her inappropriately, authorities said. The victim eventually sought medical attention after experiencing stomach pain, and it was discovered that she was pregnant. Despite her pregnancy, Jones continued to sexually assault her.
It wasn’t until 2020 that family members of the victim reported the assault to the authorities, prompting an investigation. Ellis County District Attorney Ann Montgomery commended the courage of the family member who came forward, stating that they had opened the door for the victim to seek justice.
Jones admitted to some sexual contact but denied intercourse. However, DNA evidence confirmed that he was the father of the victim’s baby. A jury found Jones guilty on all three counts of sexual assault of a child, and each sentence was enhanced to life in prison due to his previous aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge.
Jones is currently held in the Wayne McCollum Detention Center in Ellis County. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting abuse and seeking justice for victims.
