Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has finalized an agreement with federal prosecutors, effectively closing the chapter on a legal saga that has spanned nearly a decade. Under the terms of the deal, Paxton will pay almost $300,000 in restitution, avoiding a trial that had the potential to end with a 99-year sentence if he had been convicted.
The case, stemming from allegations dating back to 2015, accused Paxton of securities fraud and failing to register as an investment adviser. These charges were linked to his activities with a Dallas-area tech startup, where he allegedly misled investors — a claim Paxton has steadfastly denied.
‘There will never be a conviction in this case nor am I guilty’: Ken Paxton reaches deal with prosecutors | The Post Millennial | https://t.co/FHkq1RTfo5 https://t.co/38dTuk2BWa
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Paxton’s resolve has been evident throughout this ordeal. “There will never be a conviction in this case, nor am I guilty,” he affirmed, expressing relief and gratitude for the resolution and the unwavering support from his family and constituents. This settlement, requiring no admission of guilt, also mandates Paxton to complete 100 hours of community service and 15 hours of legal ethics education.
The case has been fraught with political contention, with Paxton’s legal team and supporters denouncing the charges as politically motivated. Dan Cogdell, Paxton’s attorney, articulated a sentiment echoed by many in Paxton’s corner, asserting the prosecution’s inability to substantiate their allegations. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) likened the ordeal to political harassment, reminiscent of Paxton’s previous impeachment trial, where he was acquitted of all charges.
While he battled the now-resolved charges, Paxton actively continued his role as a staunch defender of conservative principles on behalf of Texas. He celebrated the reversal of Roe v. Wade, taking a firm stance in enforcing the law now declaring abortion illegal in most circumstances in the Lone Star State. His office released an advisory setting forth Texas law in light of the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision. He marked this historic change by announcing the closure of his agency’s offices in honor of the event, designating June 24th as an annual Office of the Attorney General holiday.
Paxton has cemented his reputation as a legal figure unafraid to leverage his office’s powers to uphold and advance conservative values, especially on highly contentious issues like abortion and state sovereignty against illegal migration.
The resolution before Paxton’s trial comes as what he and his supporters declare as his vindication against a decade-long political witch hunt.
