Former UFC lightweight standout Hermes Franca turned himself over to the  Clackamas County Jail Monday night, charged with seven counts of Sexual Abuse in  the first degree (ORS.163.427)  as well as two counts of Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the second degree (ORS.163.408).  Both crimes fall under Oregon’s Measure 11 mandatory minimum sentencing for  serious crimes, carrying a minimum term of 75 months each. Franca’s bail has  been set at $250,000.

According to sources close to Franca, the 36 year old Brazillian lightweight  flew into Portland Monday night from Florida to turn himself in. The MMA veteran  of ten years was made aware of the multi-count indictment while in Brazil for  his match at the International Fighter Championship on April 29. After  consulting with legal counsel, Franca came back to the United States to answer  the charges. Franca pled not guilty to all nine counts at his araignment Tuesday  afternoon.

Probably best known for his knockout victory over Spencer Fisher at UFC Fight  Night 8 in 2007, Franca has amassed a 22-12 record (13 submissions, 7 (T)KO’s,  and 12 decisions) during his ten year MMA career and has finished 3 of his last  four opponents. He holds notable wins over Nick Diaz, Spencer Fisher, Marcus  Aurelio, Jamie Varner, Mike Thomas Brown, and Toby Imada, amongst others.

Franca is scheduled to headline MFC 30 in a lightweight title match against  fellow ex-UFC Alumn Drew Fickett on June 10th. No official word yet from  Franca’s management as to wether or not the bond has been posted, next court  date, etc. Updates will be made as they come in.