New Bern, NC – August 7, 2025 — A Craven County man, Jamiaz Cotrell Perkins-Coats, is facing serious charges following an investigation into the alleged sexual assault of a child, according to a statement from the Craven County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation was launched on July 30, 2025, after the Sheriff’s Office received a disturbing report concerning the sexual abuse of a minor. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Bureau initiated an immediate investigation, working closely with child advocacy professionals and collecting evidence that ultimately identified Perkins-Coats, 18, of Landmark Circle in New Bern, as the suspect in the case.
After consultation with the Craven County District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement secured a warrant for Jamiaz Cotrell Perkins-Coats’ arrest. The warrant was issued by a magistrate based on the strength of the investigative findings.
On August 6, 2025, investigators with the Sheriff’s Office took Perkins-Coats into custody without incident. He has been charged with Indecent Liberties with a Minor, a Class F felony in North Carolina that carries significant legal consequences upon conviction.
Jamiaz Cotrell Perkins-Coats is currently being held at the Craven County Confinement Facility, pending further court proceedings. Bond details have not yet been made public.
Officials have withheld identifying details about the victim, citing the need to protect the child’s privacy. Authorities also stated that the investigation is still active and ongoing, and additional charges could be filed as more information is gathered.
In a public statement, Sheriff Chip Hughes reinforced the department’s commitment to protecting children from abuse. “The safety of our children is paramount,” he said. “We will continue to work aggressively to hold perpetrators like Jamiaz Cotrell Perkins-Coats accountable for their actions.”
Anyone who may have additional information about this case or knows of other potential victims is urged to contact the Craven County Sheriff’s Office at (252) 636-6620.
All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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