Agreement reached in child sexual abuse case – CCN

A settlement has been reached in the case of a man accused of sexual crimes against children.

Michael John Fishburn, 46, formerly of White Pine Rd., Lake Waccamaw, pleaded guilty Monday to indecent exposure of a child. A charge of sexual abuse was dropped as part of the agreement.

Fishburn was sentenced to 24 months' probation and must register as a sex offender for 30 years, court records show. Fishburn was also ordered to pay $2,295 in court costs and not live in a household with minor children. He was given credit for 90 days of time already served.

Fishburn was arrested in April 2022. He was accused of having sexual relations with a then four-year-old girl. According to the arrest warrant, the crimes occurred between February 1 and March 1, 2022.

District Attorney Jon David said the family agreed to the deal to prevent the victim from being forced to testify publicly in court.

The state was represented by Assistant District Attorney Jenna Marie Earley. Judge Jason Disbrow approved the agreement. Fishburn was represented by Griffith Garner. Det. A. Geogahan investigated the case for the Sheriff's Office.