A 69-year-old registered sex offender is back in custody after an incident at Knightdale Station Park that has parents on edge. Knightdale police arrested Arnell Jackson after a woman reported that he sexually abused her and stole her wallet at the popular community park. Jackson made his first court appearance on Wednesday and is scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday, April 14. The case has unsettled families who frequent the playgrounds, trails and splash pad.
Police charges and arrest
According to WRAL, Knightdale police charged Jackson with one misdemeanor count of sexual battery and one misdemeanor count of larceny tied to the encounter at Knightdale Station Park. The victim told police that Jackson took her wallet, then touched her without consent. He was booked into custody and appeared before a magistrate on Wednesday, the outlet reports.
Background on the suspect
Jackson is listed on North Carolina’s sex-offender registry and was convicted in 1999 on charges that included rape, attempted rape and indecent liberties with a minor, according to public records. He served nearly 12 years in prison on those offenses. As detailed by OffenderRadar, Jackson registered with the state in 2011 and last verified his address in November 2025.
Where the incident happened
The confrontation unfolded at Knightdale Station Park, a 71-acre community park at 810 N. First Avenue. The town’s parks information lists playgrounds, athletic fields and a splash pad among the amenities, and the grounds are regularly used for youth sports and family outings. Visitors can find park details and hours on the town’s website.
What's next
Jackson is scheduled to return to court for a hearing on Tuesday, April 14, according to WRAL. Prosecutors and the Wake County court system will decide whether the existing misdemeanor counts remain as filed or are upgraded or supplemented as the investigation continues.
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