McBee man sentenced to 28 years in child sexual assault case

A McBee man has been sentenced to almost 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a young child, according to the McBee Police Department.
John Wesley Pratt, 32, entered a guilty plea in General Sessions Court and accepted a 28‑year prison sentence rather than proceed to trial. Pratt was charged with criminal sexual conduct with a minor, first degree.
McBee Police Chief Timothy Knight said the successful prosecution of the case was built on the strength of the department’s investigative work, particularly the interview conducted by McBee officers early in the investigation.
Knight praised Sergeant Lee Lewis and every officer involved for their professionalism and commitment to protecting the town’s most vulnerable residents.
“The dedication shown by our officers and our partners in the Solicitor’s Office demonstrates our shared commitment to seeking justice for victims and holding offenders accountable,” said Knight. “Protecting our children remains one of the highest priorities of the McBee Police Department.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Fourth Circuit Solicitor’s Office for its diligence in bringing the case to a conclusion.
The McBee Police Department said it remains committed to working closely with prosecutors to thoroughly investigate crimes against children and pursue justice for victims and their families.