SAN DIEGO -- A sailor who demonstrated his opposition to the war in Iraq by refusing to board the USS Bonhomme Richard as it deployed from San Diego in December and could be sentenced to a year of confinement and a bad conduct discharge.

Petty Officer Third Class Pablo Paredes, 23, was convicted Wednesday of missing the ship's movement at Naval Station San Diego. A judge dismissed a lesser charge of unauthorized absence.

A sentencing phase is under way, said Navy public affairs spokesman Sam Samuelson.

Paredes could be sentenced to a year in confinement and receive a bad conduct discharge. Lesser punishments could include a dishonorable discharge or reduction in rank and pay.

Paredes, a weapons-control technician from the Bronx, N.Y., refused to board his ship, the USS Bonhomme Richard, as it left for Iraq on Dec. 6. He wore a T-shirt that read, "Like a cabinet member -- I resign."

He was not arrested at the time.

Paredes said he was a conscientious objector to the war in Iraq. At the time, he acknowledged that his action would most likely result in a court-martial and imprisonment.

Local war activists held a rally Tuesday night to kick off several days of protests and events surrounding Paredes' trial.

"He commands a great deal of our respect and admiration for his courage and willingness to put his own life and freedom on the line," San Diego Military Families Speak Out member Lynn Gonzalez said.

A spokesman for Naval Station San Diego offered 10News the following statement regarding Paredes:

"Anyone going through a Special Courts Martial proceeding is entitled to very specific rights. The Navy will ensure that Petty Officer Pablo Paredes' rights will be protected during the entire judicial process."

Parades said he stands by his decision and is prepared to go to prison.

"I was prepared the day I held my protest. I've had five months to build a movement around it, so I'm definitely prepared," he said.