DeKalb Sheriff Banned From Atlanta Parks In Plea Deal

DECATUR, GA -- Embattled DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey Mann pleaded guilty Thursday afternoon in his indecency trial, bringing a quick end to a sensational case that captured national attention. The plea means Mann is banned from all Atlanta parks for six months, according to news reports.

The misdemeanor obstruction charges also mean Mann must do 80 hours of community service, which he has already fulfilled and pay a $2,000 fine, the TV station reports. (SIGN UP: For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts. Or if you have an iPhone, download the free Patch app.)

In the courtroom of Atlanta Municipal Court Judge Crystal Gaines, Mann entered a guilty plea -- a reversal of his earlier plea of not guilty. The trial comes the same week that Mann returned to work after serving a 40-day suspension imposed by Gov. Nathan Deal. During his absence, Mann was replaced by Ruth Stringer, a 25-year veteran of the sheriff's office.

Ga. Governor Suspends DeKalb Sheriff Jeff Mann For 40 Days

Mann was detained by an Atlanta police officer on May 6 after the policeman observed a man exposing himself in an area of the park known for “sexual acts after dark,” according to the police report.

The trial's end brings an embarrassment saga for DeKalb to an end, and also means that Mann will not be disqualified from office.

Watch: Video shows DeKalb Sheriff running from police

Days after the incident, Mann apologized for his actions, saying that he was sorry for "the unfavorable light my arrest has brought upon this county, the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff's Office and most importantly the citizens."

Image via Craig Johnson / Patch