Today’s verdict confirms that Congresswoman Brown exploited the generosity of her constituents, other Floridians and contributors outside the state to enrich herself with funds those donors understood would provide scholarships for needy students. Her disgraceful conduct betrayed her solemn promise to “bear true faith and allegiance” to the Constitution and “faithfully discharge the duties” of her office.

These jury findings underscore the importance of ethics laws that require full disclosure of the personal finances of members of Congress and other elected officials. The 18 criminal counts on which Congresswoman Brown was convicted include lying on her federal income tax returns and her congressional disclosure forms.