Following an investigation that began on July 20, 2024, Clay County law enforcement officers have arrested two individuals on multiple charges involving crimes against juveniles.
The investigation, spearheaded by Sgt. Steven Smith, Investigator Nick Queen, and Lt. Tyler Faggard, was conducted in close collaboration with the Clay County Department of Social Services. Their joint efforts included gathering vital digital evidence related to the charges.
On July 22, 2024, Sara Marie Yorg, 42, of Brasstown, NC, was arrested and charged with accessory after the fact, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, and failing to report a crime against a juvenile. Yorg, born in Murphy, NC, posted a $100,000 bond on July 24, 2024.
Edward Arthur Hall, 40, also of Brasstown, NC, was arrested on July 19, 2024, and faces a series of grave charges, including multiple counts of indecent liberties with a child, sexual battery, assault on a female, and statutory sex offenses with a child by an adult. Hall, originally from Woodbury, NJ, is currently held without bond.
Under North Carolina law (§ 14-318.6), any person aged 18 or older who knows or reasonably should have known that a juvenile is a victim of a violent offense, sexual offense, or misdemeanor child abuse must report the case to local law enforcement. Failure to do so constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor.
The law stipulates that good-faith reports grant immunity from criminal or civil liability to the reporter, ensuring that those who come forward are protected. Additionally, law enforcement officers who discover evidence of abuse must report their findings to the Department of Social Services within 48 hours.
This case underscores the critical importance of mandatory reporting in safeguarding the welfare of juveniles and highlights the legal and moral responsibilities adults have in protecting vulnerable members of the community.
Anyone with additional information related to this case is urged to contact the Clay County Sheriff's Office.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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