ST. THOMAS — A federal grand jury today returned a ten-count indictment against professional boxer John Jackson, 30, of St. Thomas, charging him with two counts of production of child pornography, three counts of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, one count of first-degree rape, and three counts of second-degree aggravated rape, United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert has announced.
The indictment stems from Mr. Jackson allegedly engaging in sexual activity and then producing images of his sexual encounter with a 15-year-old female minor. Under federal law, Mr. Jackson faces a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
Attorney Shappert reminded the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Mr. Jackson is a well-known boxer in the Virgin Islands and comes from a prominent family in St. Thomas. In August 2015, he won an important bout against Dennis Laurente of Manila in the opener of a two-match super welterweight tournament. All three judges scored the fight 100-89. In July 2016, however, Mr. Jackson was knocked out in the eighth round during a boxing match with opponent Jermell Charlo.
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