Citing an apparent lack of remorse, a judge on Monday sentenced a former South Salt Lake police officer to 30 days in jail for fondling a woman during a traffic stop.

Prosecutors recommended that Scott Craig Daniels face no jail time, receiving instead home confinement, community service and a hefty fine. But 3rd District Judge Stephen Henriod determined that some time in jail was appropriate.

"I take this very seriously," Henriod said, noting Daniels' position of authority over the woman he pulled over in the early morning hours of April 29, 2005.

In a federal civil lawsuit filed in January, the woman claims she was fondled by Daniels for nearly an hour. But on Monday, defense attorney Earl Xaiz said the physical contact occurred only "for a matter of seconds."

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Daniels pleaded guilty in December to a class A misdemeanor count of sexual battery.

Xaiz said his client knows his behavior was inappropriate and is truly remorseful for his conduct. "He's realized that he's hurt a lot of people, he's ruined his career," Xaiz said.

But Henriod was unconvinced. "I'm not impressed with his statement."

Henroid originally ordered that Daniels be taken into custody immediately, but, on Xaiz's request, allowed the former officer 48 hours of preparation time. He must turn himself in to a Salt Lake County Sheriff's deputy by noon Wednesday.

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