Chicago police sergeant accused of assaulting girl

A Chicago police sergeant has been relieved of his powers after being accused of kissing and touching a 9-year-old girl inappropriately and then threatening her mother.

The Cook County state's attorney's office said 61-year-old Dennis Barnes is charged with attempted predatory criminal sexual assault of a victim under 13 and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Prosecutors said Barnes was at a co-worker's house for a barbecue Saturday when he sat next to the girl, massaged her feet, put his hand on her thigh and then her stomach. The girl's brother observed the incident and told their mother, authorities said.

Defense attorney Mike Clancy said Thursday the allegations are untrue, adding there will be a trial and his client will be found not guilty.

Barnes is a 20-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department.