JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- A former Jacksonville Sheriff's Office deputy pleaded guilty to attempted capital sexual battery and custodial sexual battery in a Duval County courtroom Thursday.
Richard Cannon was arrested in August of 2011 when two victims told police Cannon had sexually battered them.
Evidence revealed that from January 2008 through August 2011 Cannon abused the two girls, according to a news release from the State Attorney's Office. One girl was under the age of 12 and the other was under the age of 18, the release said.
Originally, the 48-year-old was charged with 13 counts of sex crimes. The charges were amended Thursday morning to attempted capital sexual battery and custodial sexual battery.
The release said the victims' families supported the modified changes.
Assistant State Attorney Theresa Simak said, "This plea agreement protects our two victims. Now these children do not have to face their abuser or relive in court the horrible crimes committed against them.
Cannon was with the Sheriff's Office for 25 years. Cannon faces up to 30 years in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced the week of September 17, 2012.
First Coast News