VISTA, Calif. (KGTV) -- The San Diego deputy accused of groping 13 woman he met while on duty will stand trial, a judge ruled Wednesday.
Richard Fischer, 32, is facing 14 years and eight months if convicted on charges of assault and battery by an officer, sexual battery and false imprisonment.
Deputy District Attorney Annette Irving told the judge that Fischer preyed on the alleged victims while on duty and in full uniform.
“He had the authority to detain these women," the prosecutor said. “He had power over these women, who were all vulnerable. These women needed help, not sex."
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Irving said Fischer asked the women for hugs, touched the breasts of some and moved the hand of one woman over his crotch while they hugged for a third time.
Defense attorney Richard Pinckard questioned the credibility of many of the alleged victims saying that many had felony convictions.
Pinckard also argued that the women consented to the hugs. The judge ruled that enough evidence was produced during the hearing for Fischer to stand trial.
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Fischer is scheduled to be back in court on June 20.
