Update 6:10pm – Johnston County Commissioners voted unanimously to begin the search to replace Richard D. Braswell, representing District 3. Commissioners will seek applications from the public to fill the vacant term expiring in December 2026. Under state law, the replacement must be named within 60 days.
October 7, 2024
SMITHFIELD – Following a two-week trial in Johnston County Superior Court, Johnston County Commissioner Richard D. Braswell of Princeton was found guilty late-today (Monday) of taking indecent liberties with a child.
Commissioner Braswell was arrested on June 29, 2022 following an investigation by the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred in June 2022 and involved a juvenile female, who was 13 at the time.
Jurors deliberated for a little more than two hours Monday afternoon before returning the guilty verdict, to the single felony offense, at approximately 4:52pm.
Afterwards, Mr. Braswell was sentenced to serve an active 20 to 33 month prison sentence, and register as a sex offender for 30 years. Braswell was permanently barred from making contact with the victim.
Braswell was appointed to the Johnston County Board of Commissioners, representing District 3, in December 2021 to fill an unexpired term through December 2022. Braswell had no opposition for election in November 2022 and won a four-year term.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Bye Felicia.
A deacon in a church messing with a 13 year old. Some how 3 years don’t seem long enough.
Absolutely sickening and I can’t say what I really want to or this simply will get moderated and not posted.
Finally Justice is served…. why in the world was he on the Board of Commissioners so long thought?