MACHIAS — A former Maine sheriff is facing a deferred sentence after he pleaded guilty to a charge he displayed a weapon during a dispute with a family of two adults and two children.

Former Washington County Sheriff John Tibbetts, who is also a retired Maine State Police trooper, pleaded guilty Monday to the misdemeanor charge.

His attorney has said Tibbetts was protecting blueberry land and $100,000 worth of farming equipment in Washington County last Aug. 13 when the couple’s car appeared.

The family members say Tibbetts threatened to shoot them.

The 63-year-old Tibbetts told police he did have a weapon, but did not raise it.

The Bangor Daily News says Tibbetts must perform 120 hours of community service.