ANTHEM – A 45‑year‑old Anthem resident was charged with multiple sex offenses last week.

Derek Vernon, no address given, was charged with two counts each of kidnapping, aggravated assault, and sexual conduct with a minor, all class 2 felonies, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. He also is charged with six counts of sex abuse, a class 3 felony.

Detectives in the Sheriff’s Special Victim’s Unit stated they began investigating Vernon in mid‑February when a 14‑year‑old victim alleged Vernon attempted to sexually assault her. During that investigation, detectives say they found another, 13‑year‑old, female victim.      

Vernon was taken into custody March 15. His initial court appearance is scheduled for March 27, according to the Maricopa County Superior Court.