HONOULULU (KHON2) — A former Hawaii correctional officer has pleaded guilty to sexually abusing inmates while working at the Federal Detention Center in Honolulu.

Mikael Rivera, 47, of Kapolei, admitted to sexually assaulting one inmate who did not consent and engaging in abusive behavior with two other inmates he was responsible for between 2014 and 2018.

Rivera, who was a correctional officer at the facility during that time, pleaded guilty to six counts of sexual abuse of a ward.

Rivera faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for each count. His sentencing is scheduled for July 3, where a federal judge will determine his sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

The case was investigated by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General (DOJ-OIG) with support from the FBI.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson, DOJ-OIG Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon, and Special Agent in Charge Zachary Shroyer announced the plea.

Rivera’s actions are a stark reminder of the importance of holding those in positions of authority accountable, especially when it involves vulnerable individuals under their care.