Beach Park man denies molesting two girls

A Beach Park man accused of molesting two young girls pleaded not guilty Thursday in Lake County Circuit Court.

Ferdinand Rivera, 50, faces up to 14 years in prison if convicted of aggravated sexual abuse against both 15-year-old girls.

Assistant State's Attorney Reginald Matthews said Rivera kissed and fondled the girls on several occasions between May 2009 and February at his home in the 38000 block of Sheridan Road.

One of the girls told a friend about the attacks, Matthews said, and that friend convinced the girl to tell her mother.

The victim's mother called Lake County sheriff's police, who say Rivera confessed to molesting the girls.

Matthews said Rivera was sentenced to five years in prison after a 1993 conviction for attempted delivery of a controlled substance.

Associate Judge George Bridges scheduled a trial of the case for May 25. Bridges ordered Rivera, who was released from jail after posting $10,000 for bond, to appear in court May 25.