WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A former deputy with the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office pleaded guilty in a Wilmington federal courtroom.

A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office said Jon James Thomas, 45, pleaded before Judge James C. Fox to receipt of child pornography. On October 15, 2015, Thomas was indicted by a federal grand jury while still a deputy. The plea happened yesterday afternoon, and sentencing is scheduled during the March 28 term of court.

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Thomas admitted to authorities he downloaded child porn for about two years when he was charged. Thomas faces between five and 20 years behind bars, along with a fine up to $250,000.