A state deputy sheriff accused of sexually assaulting a woman in his custody has been found not guilty.

Benjamin Fonoti pleaded not guilty to charges of second and third degree sexual assault in April this year.

He was accused of forcing an inmate to perform oral sex on him in October last year.

Tuesday, Deputy Sheriff Fonoti was acquitted of any wrongdoing.

The department of public safety says it looks forward to Fonoti's return to full duty.