A Hamilton Pastor Convicted of Securities Fraud
A jury has convicted a Hamilton pastor on three felony counts of securities fraud.
The Ravalli Republic reports Harris Himes was convicted Friday of fraudulent practices, failing to register a security and failing to register as a security salesperson.
He could face up to 10 years in prison on each count.
He was acquitted on one felony count of theft by deception.
Himes represented himself during the four-day trial.
Himes was accused of cheating a church member out of $150,000. Prosecutors allege Himes and a co-defendant told the man the money would be invested in a factory in Mexico that didn't exist.
The co-defendant, James "Jeb" Bryant, travelled from Mexico to testify for Himes under a subpoena. Officials say Bryant couldn't be arrested because he was appearing under subpoena.