Who is Jack St. Bride from Salem Falls and what is their importance?

Jack St. Bride is the protagonist of the novel and the son of Annaliese St. Bride. He is released from Grafton County prison in New Hampshire after serving time for sexual assault of a minor and comes to Salem Falls. Jack was accused of having an affair with a student, Catherine Marsh, although this was only wishful thinking on Catherine's part. When he arrives in Salem Falls, he falls in love with Addie, but is soon accused of raping Gillian Duncan. His case goes to trial and he is vindicated when his lawyer, Jordan McAfee, proves the Gillian and her friends were lying about what happened that night in the woods. Throughout Jack's life, he sees his mother help women who have been badly used by men. His mother turns against him when he is first accused of sexual assault.