SUMNER, Wash. — A former Sumner High School coach is getting his day in court.
On Thursday, the trial begins for Jacob Jackson, the former head coach of the school’s basketball team.
Jackson is accused of using his position to meet and molest underage boys.
Police began investigating claims against him in 2022 when one alleged victim came forward and he was later charged in 2023. More potential victims came forward, which KIRO 7 reported on in November.
According to the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office, Jackson faces about 20 counts in connection to his alleged crimes.
Court documents detail the graphic allegations against him. The boys said he inappropriately messaged them over social media, asking for sexually explicit photos. Some said he molested and raped them, sometimes while family members were home.
Jackson was reportedly the head of the boy’s basketball team from 2016 to September 2022.
Jackson has pleaded not guilty.
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