This May 22, 2007 file photo shows Chris Simcox, founder and President of the Minuteman Civil Defense Corps, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

PHOENIX — Jury deliberations will enter their second day for the founder of the Minuteman border-watch movement on charges that he sexually abused two young girls.

Jurors at Christopher Allen Simcox's trial heard closing arguments and started deliberations on Monday afternoon.

Authorities say Simcox molested a 5-year-old girl and engaged in sexual conduct with a 6-year-old girl during an 11-month period ending in May 2013.

He denies the allegations and has pleaded not guilty to charges of child molestation, sexual conduct with a minor and furnishing obscene materials to minors.

The Minuteman movement drew attention in 2005 as illegal immigration heated up as a national political issue.

But the group splintered after Simcox and another co-founder parted ways and led separate groups.


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