Former US congressman found guilty of money laundering

A jury in the American state of Texas has convicted former US House Majority Leader Tom DeLay on charges of money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering to Texas candidates in 2002.



Jurors deliberated for 19 hours before returning a guilty verdict.



DeLay, who was once one of the most powerful Republicans in Congress, now faces up to life in prison.



Lawyers for the former congressman said he had acted properly and no corporate funds had gone to the candidates.



In Texas, it is illegal for corporate money to be directly used for political campaigns.