(Harrisburg) --- The first Republicans to be tried in a state corruption trial have been found guilty of 40 criminal charges for their involvement in a state House GOP scheme to illegally spend millions of public dollars on campaign activities. The Dauphin County Court jury has found former Representative Brett Feese and Jill Seaman, his one-time aide, guilty of theft, conspiracy, conflict of interest, hindering apprehension and obstruction.

Chief Deputy Attorney General Frank Fina says more than 20 people from the state Capitol now have pleaded or been found guilty on charges that came out of a government corruption investigation. "I sure hope the message is getting delivered over there that they’re there for the best interests of the people and the best interests of the people only and they should not be using the money of the people for personal efforts," he says.

Seaman gave no comment as she left the courtroom. Feese insisted he’s not guilty. His wife, at his side, said, "It’s about being in the wrong place, at the wrong time."

Feese’s attorney says it’s likely he’ll appeal the ruling, but any appeal will have to wait until after sentencing, scheduled for January.

(Photo above: Chief Deputy Attorney General Frank Fina)