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After more than a week of courtroom drama in Fort Bend County, jurors found Fort Bend County Judge KP George guilty of money laundering, ending a high-profile trial that gripped the Richmond justice center.

Allegations and Court Proceedings

George faced two felony counts of money laundering stemming from accusations that he transferred $46,500 from his campaign account to his personal account. Prosecutors argued the funds were stolen from donors, while defense attorneys claimed the transactions were legitimate repayments.

The trial spanned over a week, with intense scrutiny of financial records and testimony from campaign staff. On Friday afternoon, the tense courtroom erupted as George was led out in handcuffs.

The jury convicted him of a third-degree felony, which carries a sentence of two to 10 years in prison, but declined to convict on the lesser state felony that could have resulted in 180 days to two years behind bars.

Sentencing and Next Steps

George has opted for the judge to determine his sentence, which is scheduled for June 16. According to the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, he will remain in office until sentencing is complete.

If sentenced, George could be removed from office, though an appeal could allow him to remain a sitting judge temporarily. The DA may seek a suspension in the interim.

Political science expert Mark Jones noted that George’s removal would not be final until all appeals are resolved, potentially extending beyond the end of his term.

Bond and Immediate Release

After the conviction, George was taken into custody but is expected to post a $20,000 bond and be released shortly, his attorneys confirmed.

The case, which placed a local judge under the harsh spotlight of public scrutiny, underscores how financial misconduct can reverberate through both legal and political spheres.