MURPHY, N.C. — William Kraig Moran, 53, of Murphy pled guilty to statutory rape in
Cherokee County Superior Court presided over by the Honorable Gary Gavenus on Nov.
13, 2017.

In July 2017, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s received a complaint alleging that Moran
had sexually assaulted a minor child. The joint investigation was conducted involving the Cherokee
County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Department of Social Services, HAVEN Child
Advocacy Center, and the 30th District Attorney’s Office. The joint investigation culminated in the arrest of Moran.

Judge Gavenus sentenced Moran to a maximum of 21 years and 8 months in prison, and
he will serve at least 13 years and 10 months before he is eligible for release. Upon his release
from prison, Moran will be monitored by a GPS satellite tracking system, and he will be required
to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life.

“This conviction keeps a very dangerous child predator off the streets while he serves a
lengthy prison sentence and sends a strong message to the community that the District Attorney’s
office places the highest priority on protecting our children. I commend all of the dedicated
professionals who partner with the District Attorney’s office to give a strong voice to our most
vulnerable victims. Congratulations on a job well done,” said District Attorney Ashley Welch.

Sheriff Palmer said, “Again, (this was) great team work by some very dedicated individuals. We echo
District Attorney Welch’s sentiments and will continue to fight those who attempt to rob our
youth of their innocence.”

Sheriff Palmer encourages anyone that has information on this crime or any other to
report it. To report crime in Cherokee County, you can call the anonymous tip line at 828-837-
1344 or email a tip at [email protected] or call 911 if you observe a crime in
progress.