A former basketball coach from Sumner High School has been sentenced to 40 years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing players. The sentencing followed an emotional hearing where victims and their families recounted the profound impact of the abuse. Since Jacob Jackson’s arrest in 2023, the disclosure of these incidents has led to further victimization, with details being used against the players in school and during games.
Court documents revealed that Jackson initiated inappropriate communication with players via text messages and social media, eventually inviting them to his home in Lake Tapps, where the abuse was reported to have occurred. The first incident was reported by a player in 2018, leading to Jackson’s subsequent charges in 2023. In January, a jury found him guilty of 19 crimes, including rape, child molestation, sexual exploitation of a minor, and immoral communication with a minor. The charges were aggravated by the designation of an “ongoing pattern” and the abuse of his position of trust.
During the trial, one mother expressed her regret for not recognizing the grooming behavior sooner. She shared her inability to forgive Jackson for his actions and her struggle to forgive herself for not seeing the signs. The presiding judge, Phillip Sorensen, reassured the parents that the blame did not lie with them, emphasizing that the responsibility rested solely on Jackson.
Testimonies from affected families highlighted the long-lasting effects of the abuse, including shattered trust and difficulties in forming personal relationships. Some players, who were once promising athletes, have struggled to continue their sports careers due to the trauma they endured. Many have sought therapy to regain control over their lives.
Jackson, through tears, apologized to the victims and acknowledged his actions, expressing remorse for the harm he caused. However, Judge Sorensen questioned the sincerity of his apology, suggesting that Jackson was more remorseful about being caught than about his actions. The judge noted the bravery of the players coming forward as pivotal in bringing the abuse to light.
The standard sentencing range for the crimes was ten years, but prosecutors advocated for consecutive sentences, which could have led to an 80-year term. Ultimately, Judge Sorensen deemed a 40-year sentence appropriate, citing the number of victims and the duration of the abuse as justification for the extended term.
For the victims and their families, the sentencing represents a crucial step towards healing. One player emphasized resilience and determination to overcome the ordeal, stating that despite the challenges faced, they would continue to rise and move forward as survivors.