Judge gives 15 years to man who stole child’s innocence

Charleston man handed maximum sentence after jury convicts him of abusing a minor.

Charleston, S.C. — A Charleston courtroom heard its verdict on Thursday as a man convicted of a disturbing sexual offence against a child learned his fate.

Christopher Robert White received the maximum possible sentence of 15 years for third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor. The sentence, handed down by the Hon. Jennifer McCoy, follows a unanimous jury verdict after a three-day trial.

According to Solicitor Scarlett Wilson, White’s punishment will be split into two parts: ten years in prison, followed by five years on probation. “Judge McCoy recognised that this horrific crime robs a child of their innocence and sentenced him accordingly,” Wilson said.

The conviction stems from charges that White engaged in sexual contact with a minor, an act prosecutors described as deeply damaging and unforgivable. Jurors reached their decision without dissent, signalling the strength of the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Assistant Solicitors Lauren Mulkey Fierson and Tyra Roberts led the case, methodically building their argument over the course of the trial. They were assisted by Investigator Jennifer Hall, whose work was credited as instrumental in securing the guilty verdict.

During sentencing, the courtroom atmosphere was tense. White, now facing a decade behind bars, remained largely expressionless as Judge McCoy delivered the maximum penalty. Her statement underscored the severity of the crime and its lasting impact on the young victim.

Third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor is a serious felony under South Carolina law. While the charge is not the most severe in the state’s hierarchy of sexual offences, the court in this case determined that the maximum penalty was warranted. Prosecutors argued that any lesser sentence would fail to reflect the gravity of the harm done.

For Solicitor Wilson, the outcome marked a clear example of the justice system protecting vulnerable members of the community. She emphasised the courage of the victim in coming forward, noting that such bravery is essential in holding offenders accountable.

Fierson and Roberts echoed those sentiments, pointing out that cases involving children are particularly complex and emotionally charged. “It takes a team effort to bring justice in these situations,” Fierson said after court adjourned. Roberts added that the verdict was “a strong message that crimes against children will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Investigator Hall’s role was also highlighted, with prosecutors acknowledging the painstaking work required to gather the necessary evidence. In cases of sexual abuse, much depends on the victim’s testimony, but corroborating details are vital to securing a conviction. Hall’s investigative efforts were described as critical to the case’s success.

The sentencing marks the end of a legal process that began months earlier, when allegations first surfaced. From the initial report to the final verdict, the prosecution pursued the case with the stated aim of ensuring the victim’s safety and dignity.

White will serve his ten-year prison term before entering a five-year period of probation. While on probation, he will remain under strict supervision and be required to comply with conditions designed to prevent reoffending.

For the community, the case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by sexual predators — and the importance of vigilance, support for victims, and rigorous enforcement of the law.