Man pleads guilty to sexual offense in hospital parking lot involving child

PENDER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A man pleaded guilty to sex crimes involving a child during a court appearance on Monday.

Randy Tucker, 41, will spend between 15 and 24 years in prison for statutory sex offense with a child 15 or younger.

According to a news release, in September, the victim told her school counselor about two sexual encounters with Tucker, including one that took place in the parking lot of Pender Memorial Hospital. The counselor reported the crimes to law enforcement, and the minor was interviewed at the Carousel Center.

The Pender County Sheriff’s Office obtained video from the hospital parking lot which confirmed the victim’s account. Detectives also obtained incriminating messages sent by Tucker.

Following Tucker’s arrest, he admitted to the sexual act stating it was a “stupid mistake” and something “that should never have happened.”

“Committing a sex offense with a minor is never a ‘mistake.’ It’s intentional, and it’s a crime,” said Assistant District Attorney Rebecca Z. Donaldson. “Tucker is being held accountable for his crime because of the bravery of the victim, the professionalism of the school counselor, the incredible resources at the Carousel Center, and the investigative efforts of law enforcement.”

When Tucker is released from prison, he will also be required to register as a sex offender for 30 years.