Updated Oct. 10, 12:45 p.m.
North Carolina’s political landscape was shaken as state representative Cecil Brockman, serving his sixth term, faced four serious felony charges. The charges involve alleged indecent liberties and statutory rape of a minor aged 15.
Details from the magistrate’s order reveal accusations of Brockman engaging in sexual acts with the minor twice around mid-August. Additionally, he’s alleged to have attempted lewd acts on the same juvenile, identified in the documents by initials. The State Bureau of Investigation is playing a role in the ongoing legal proceedings.
Currently detained at High Point jail without bond, Brockman was expected to appear in court on Thursday. However, prior to the hearing, Judge Gordon Miller informed attendees of a new development, with a bailiff announcing Brockman’s hospitalization due to a medical emergency.
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Bria Evans confirmed Brockman’s continued custody but did not provide updates on his health, citing privacy concerns. Meanwhile, attempts to reach Brockman through his legislative office and personal contacts were unsuccessful as court records did not list his legal representation.
Calls for Brockman’s resignation came swiftly from several political figures, including the North Carolina Democratic Party, Republican House Speaker Destin Hall, House Democratic leader Rep. Robert Reives, and Democratic Governor Josh Stein. “These charges are extremely serious and deeply troubling,” Stein remarked, emphasizing the need for Brockman to step down.
If convicted, the statutory sexual offense carries a minimum sentence exceeding 12 years, with the indecent liberties charge potentially leading to prison time or probation.
A magistrate’s document cited reasons for denying Brockman’s release, noting his legislative position and resource access that could facilitate evading prosecution. It also mentioned his attempts to contact the victim, including efforts to locate them in a hospital.
Brockman, elected in 2014, has seen political tensions with Democrats due to his occasional support of Republican bills. Notably, he aided in overriding Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s vetoes in July. A proponent of some school choice measures, Brockman serves as a vice chair on the House K-12 education committee alongside Republicans, narrowly securing his primary bid for the 60th House District in 2024.
