Indian-origin Texas judge convicted in money laundering Case

A jury in Fort Bend County convicted Indian-origin Texas county judge KP George of money laundering in a case linked to the alleged misuse of election campaign funds, as per US media reports. The jury found him guilty on two counts after a week-long trial.

Prosecutors reportedly alleged that George repeatedly misrepresented campaign finances. They accused him of transferring campaign funds into personal accounts and using them for expenses such as car payments and other personal costs.

According to reports, authorities further charged that he moved funds across state lines, using accounts connected to places like Delaware and communicating with contacts in Massachusetts to conceal transactions. Officials also stated that he allegedly transferred over $46,000 from campaign funds for personal use.

However, George’s defence team reportedly denied all allegations. According to reports, his lawyers argued that the case was based on incomplete records and selective data. They maintained that there was no evidence of intent to commit fraud, which is a necessary element for conviction.

They also stated that candidates are legally permitted to lend money to their campaigns and repay themselves, calling the case an example of “government overreach.”

Despite these arguments, the jury reportedly sided with the prosecution and convicted him on serious felony charges. He now faces a possible prison sentence of two to ten years. George has reportedly chosen to let the judge decide his sentence, with sentencing set to begin on June 16.

Following the verdict, he was reportedly taken into custody and later released on a $20,000 bond after surrendering his passport. As per reports, he will be removed from office only after sentencing, although an appeal could delay the process.

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