Man convicted of sexually abusing a child

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. -- A man accused of preying on young boys and gaining their trust on fishing and boating trips is going to prison.

A jury convicted 56-year-old James Scharfschwerdt on three counts of lewd or lascivious battery sex activity of a victim between 12-16 years old.

Prosecutors said Scharfschwerdt gave alcohol and showed pornography to his victims.

Investigators say Scharfschwerdt battered a 14-year-old boy on three separate occasions. The boy told his mother years later and they decided to report the crime. Testimony from three other victims revealed Scharfschwerdt sexually abused boys as young as 12, according to the State Attorney's office.

Scharfschwerdt faces a maximum sentence of 45 years in prison. A sentencing hearing is set for February 5, 2013.