Virginia man convicted of child sex crimes in Tazewell County
TAZEWELL, VA (WVNS) — A Virginia man was convicted of fourteen counts of child sex crimes in Tazewell County.
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On February 22, 2024, 50-year-old Herbert Junior Sparks, of North Tazewell, Virginia, was found guilty to two counts of child endangerment, two counts of rape of a child under the age of thirteen, two counts of sexual penetration with an object; two counts of aggravated sexual battery, two counts of forcible sodomy, two counts of indecent liberties of a child by a custodian, one count of producing or making child pornography, and one count of displaying child porn or grooming video to child under the age of thirteen.
Evidence was shown to the judge during a bench trial that gave information on Sparks’ ongoing victimization of two children over a seven year period. Testimonies from multiple witnesses were shown at the trial from the victims, mental health professionals, and law enforcement that showed evidence of Sparks’ actions against the children.
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I would like to recognize the remarkable investigative work of the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office and also thank all the agencies involved with assisting the victims in this case. I am amazed at the strength and resilience these victims have shown throughout this process and am glad justice was served for them. I also want to recognize my Assistants Kati Asbury, Brandon Goins, and Phillip Foy for their hard work and dedication in securing these results. I also want the verdicts in both cases this week to serve as a reminder that we will dedicate all resources available to protect and defend the children of Tazewell County.
Chris Plaster | Commonwealth’s Attorney
The defendant also showed testimony from family members and himself related to the charges. At the end of the trial, Sparks was found guilty and was convicted on all counts.
Sparks faces six mandatory life sentences, as well as an additional 100 years in prison, and his sentencing is scheduled for May 30, 2024 in the Tazewell County Circuit Court.
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Sparks’ case was investigated by the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Department of Social Services, the CARE Center, Clinch Valley Medical Center, Ultra Health, and Cumberland Mountain Community Services, and Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys Kati Asbury and Phillip Foy prosecuted this case.
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