Asheboro, North Carolina — A North Carolina man known locally for placing “Thank You Jesus” yard signs has pleaded guilty to a felony sexual exploitation charge involving a minor, avoiding prison time under a plea agreement.
Lucas Hunt, 25, entered a guilty plea to third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and was sentenced to 36 months of supervised probation. As part of the sentence, he must register as a sex offender for 30 years, submit a DNA sample, undergo evaluation, and allow searches of his electronic devices.
The case began in January 2025 after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children issued a cybertip that led investigators to Hunt. Court records state he received a video depicting two underage females engaged in sexual activity, which prosecutors said was shared multiple times.
Hunt was originally charged with a more serious second-degree felony, but the plea reduced the charge and resulted in a suspended sentence. His attorney argued that rigid policies applied in such cases can undermine fairness.
Hunt, founder of a local religious sign initiative, also faced consequences outside the courtroom. The Civil Air Patrol suspended him from volunteer duties, citing concerns about safety and organizational values.
Authorities said the Invictus Task Force led the investigation. Hunt will remain under supervision for three years as part of the court’s conditions.
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