Tyler Man Convicted of Sexual Assault of a Child Under 17

TYLER — A Smith County jury Wednesday found 29-year-old Jared Lynn Monk of Tyler guilty of sexual assault of a child and sentenced him to six years in prison. According to a news release from the district attorney’s office, during a Child Protective Services investigation, the victim made statements that led the CPS worker to recommend a forensic interview at the Smith County Children’s Advocacy Center. During that interview, she claimed she was being sexually assaulted by Monk. During an interview with a sheriff’s detective, the defendant reportedly admitted he had sexual intercourse with the victim, knowing she was 14. Officials say he also admitted he was under the influence of marijuana and alcohol during the offense. Monk will be required to register as a sex offender for life. He faced probation or up to 20 years in prison.