A former Nevada County resident has been convicted of multiple counts of child sexual abuse after a jury delivered a unanimous verdict, officials announced Monday.
Jurors found Mark Steven Brocke guilty on all seven felony charges, which include six counts of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 and one count of continuous sexual abuse of a minor under 14, according to the Nevada County District Attorney’s Office.
The verdict came on October 30, following testimony from both victims—now in their mid to late 20s and early 30s—who described the abuse they suffered during childhood. Prosecutors said Brocke often committed the crimes when the victims were separated from each other or away from protective adults.
According to prosecutors, the judge also confirmed several aggravating factors, including Brocke’s use of great violence, the victims’ vulnerability, and his exploitation of a position of trust.
The court additionally ruled that Brocke poses a significant danger to society and noted that his criminal actions have grown more severe over time. He also has a prior conviction for sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl around 2006.
Brocke faces a maximum sentence of 115 years to life in prison. Sentencing is set for December 19.
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