A Jacksonville man has pleaded guilty to multiple child sex crimes following an investigation by the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Chris Thomas said 52-year-old Ryan Keith Kirby-Walton pleaded guilty April 2 in Onslow County Superior Court to indecent liberties with a child, statutory sex offense with a child under 15, and sexual activity by a substitute parent.
The charges stem from an investigation that began Oct. 17, 2023, after deputies received a report of alleged sexual abuse involving a juvenile. Investigators said the victim disclosed ongoing abuse over an extended period.
Authorities obtained warrants for Kirby-Walton’s arrest, and he was taken into custody on April 4, 2024, in Johnson City, Tennessee. He was extradited to Onslow County later that month and given a $2 million secured bond.
Following his guilty plea, Kirby-Walton was sentenced to 168 to 262 months in the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. He is also required to register as a sex offender for life.
Cases involving the abuse of children are among the most serious and disturbing we investigate,” Thomas said. “We remain committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community and holding offenders fully accountable.
Authorities encourage anyone who suspects child abuse to contact law enforcement or child protective services. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is also available at 1-800-422-4453.