Former GOP Congressman From Texas Convicted of Fraud, Conspiracy

This is a developing story.HOUSTON — A federal jury has convicted a former Texas congressman of fraud and conspiracy for misusing charitable donations to pay for personal and political expenses. Republican Steve Stockman was found guilty Thursday following a three-week trial in Houston. Federal prosecutors said Stockman conspired with two staffers to bilk conservative foundations out of at least $775,000 that was meant for charitable purposes and voter education. A campaign worker and an aide both previously pleaded guilty to various charges. Stockman's attorney has said Stockman committed no crime. Following his arrest in March 2017, Stockman said a "deep state" shadow government was targeting him. Stockman served in the U.S. House from 1995 until 1997, and again from 2013 to 2015, in a district covering an area east of Houston. He unsuccessfully challenged Sen. John Cornyn for his Senate seat in the 2014 Republican primary.The Associated Press  Continue reading...