Markal Leneal Jackson, 21, of Benton Harbor, to pleaded “guilty as charged” two counts of criminal sexual conduct first-degree, during a jury trial Wednesday, according to the a press release from the Cass County Prosecutor, Victor Fitz.

The charges stem from incidents that occurred at the 13-year-old victim’s home in Dowagiac. Each count carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and lifetime electronic monitoring device.

Jackson’s plea came shortly before Chief Assistant Prosecutor Tiffiny Vohwinkle planned to call investigating officer Jim Kusa to the stand regarding the defendant’s confession.

On the first day of trial, Tuesday, a Cass County jury heard opening statements and an afternoon of testimony.

The victim’s testimony revealed that she thought of Jackson as a brother and was shocked with his actions. The victim’s mother also testified and indicated that Jackson had been taken into their Dowagiac family home and treated like one of their own.

At the time of the March, 2016 crimes, the defendant was dating the victim’s older sister and the family was trying to assist Jackson’s efforts to attend college.

The victim, who was 13 at the time of the offense said during one of the episodes, all she could do was cry as he sexually assaulted her.

Two counts of criminal sexual conduct third degree were administratively dismissed as lesser included offenses.

Jackson was ordered to be sentenced at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 4 by Cass County Circuit, Judge Mark Herman.

The investigation into this matter was conducted by the Dowagiac Police Department.