Former Harris County Sheriff's deputy sentenced to 8 years in prison

HARRIS COUNTY, GA (WTVM) - A former Harris County Sheriff's deputy found guilty of breaking rules of law enforcement was sentenced to 8 years in prison. Judge Bobby Peters has sentenced Thomas Pierson to 8 years in prison with 9 years of probation.

Pierson will also be required to register as a sex offender and Judge Peters also revoked his privileges of possessing or owning a firearm.

In August, Thomas Pierson was found guilty on eight charges that stem from sexual conduct during traffic stops.

Charges include two counts of sexual assault on a person in custody, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence, and four counts of violation of oath by a public officer.

The jury felt Pierson should have been held to a higher standard of behavior because he was a law enforcement officer.

Alleged victims gave their testimony before the sentencing was handed down.

One victim even saying this trial has changed the way she looks at herself in the world and more importantly the way men look at her.

The defense said that they felt this case was a probation-only case.

Dane Russell

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