BEACH, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The first of three jury trials for former LaMoure Police Chief James Watson began Wednesday in Beach.

The 52 year-old faces several charges in different counties including one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child in Golden Valley County, one count of gross sexual imposition in Hettinger County and one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child in Stark County. All three counts are Class AA felonies.

Watson appeared at the Golden Valley Courthouse in front of District Court Judge William Herauf. After some deliberation, Judge Herauf moved to recess for the day in order to make a decision about whether he would allow testimony about the alleged acts in Mississippi.

Watson could face life in prison without parole if convicted.

The case resumes today. Click here for the original story.