MARION COUNTY — A case was dismissed Wednesday in Marion County Court accusing a 56-year-old Vernon man of criminal sexual assault of a child.

Darrin Jenkins was arrested in 2021 and charged with Class X predatory criminal sexual assault of a child. During the jury trial in the case Tuesday, defense counsel filed a motion for a directed verdict in the case, which Judge Mark Stedelin denied.

Defense attorney Jessica Koester again sought a directed verdict after the defense presented its case, including testimony from the defendant. Judge Stedelin granted the motion the second time and the case against Jenkins was dismissed without the jury deliberating the evidence presented during the trial.

Jenkins was facing up to 60 years in prison had he been convicted.