L.I. Jail Grievance Officer Convicted Of Sexually Abusing Female Inmates
MINEOLA, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A former correction officer has been convicted of sexually abusing female inmates at a Long Island jail.
Mark Barber was found guilty of 30 of 43 counts against him Thursday by a Nassau County jury.
Prosecutors said Barber used his position as a grievance officer for female inmates at the Nassau County Jail to engage in sexual relationships.
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They said Barber targeted inmates with histories of drug abuse, prostitution or mental health treatment. He was fired after his arrest in 2009. The inmates were given cigarettes and private phone call privileges in exchange for sex.
Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice said the former corrections officer was found guilty of abusing at least four female inmates over a two-year period.
"It' probably very likely that are other women who were abused by him, who did not come forward," Rice told 1010 WINS' Mona Rivera.
Barber was acquitted of third-degree rape but convicted of official misconduct, sexual abuse and forcible touching. He faces up to 10 years in prison. Sentencing is Sept. 28. His attorney plans to appeal.
A group of inmates from the Nassau jail have also filed a $10 million civil lawsuit.
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