Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen openly sobbed when jurors at their public corruption trial pronounced them guilty of several counts Thursday. The former governor was found guilty on 11 counts of corruption, and his wife Maureen guilty of eight counts, according to a report by the Washington Post.

Like Us on Facebook

McDonnell, a Republican, and his wife were indicted in federal court in Richmond on 14 counts of conspiracy, bribery, extortion and related charges that centered on the couple's relationship with Richmond businessman Jonnie Williams, whom prosecutors said the couple conspired with in promoting his diet supplement business. In return, the McDonnells received lavish gifts, loans, and went on luxurious vacations.

The McDonnells now face the possibility of serving decades in federal prison.

The moment the first guilty verdict was read, Robert F. McDonnell closed his eyes tightly, visibly shaking in his seat as he wept.

Maureen McDonnell seemed to cry, too, although her tears were less obvious. Behind her on the wooden bench, their daughter Cailin McDonnell Young hunched forward and sobbed while her husband Chris Young hugged her.

U.S. Attorney Dana Boente, reacting to the verdict, repeated a sentiment prosecutor Michael Dry said in his final pitch to jurors.

"This was a just difficult and disappointing day for the commonwealth and it's citizens," Boente told media outside the courthouse. "Public service frequently requires sacrifice and almost always requires financial sacrifice. When public officials turn to financial gain in exchange for official acts, we have little choice but to prosecute the case."

Defense attorney Henry Asbill said he didn't expect the verdict.

"I'm obviously very disappointed," he said. "We will appeal."

Robert F. and Maureen McDonnell, who had been living apart even before the trial started in July, left the courthouse at the same time, getting into separate cars. Maureen didn't say a word as she was whisked out amid a huge media crowd.

But Robert, who was surrounded by the media scrum, thanked reporters "for the way you've handled this."

"All I can say is my trust belongs in the Lord," McDonnell said before he ducked into his car and was driven off. A spectator outside shouted, "We still love you!"

Jurors were swept out a back door and declined to comment. One juror said, "I just want to go home," according to the Associated Press.

U.S. District Judge James R. Spencer had calmly thanked the jurors for their time and attention.

"I know it has been a difficult task, but I thank you for your sacrifice," the judge said. As the jurors walked out, Robert F. McDonnell stood, but he did not look up at them.

Judge Spencer set a sentence hearing on January 6 next year at 10 a.m. He also explained to the couple that prior to sentencing, a representative of the probation office would visit them and discuss aspects of their background which may affect the sentence.

Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D), who took over the office previously held by McDonnell in January, released a statement after the verdict was announced.

"I am deeply saddened by the events of the trial that ended in today's verdict, and the impact it has had on our Commonwealth's reputation for honesty and clean government," McAuliffe said. "Dorothy and I will continue to pray for the McDonnell family and for everyone who was affected by this trial."

TagsRobert McDonnell, Virginia