Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton faced a setback on Friday as his attempt to dismiss long-standing securities fraud indictments against him was denied by Judge Andrea Beall during a court hearing in Houston. The indictments, which date back nearly a decade, allege that Paxton defrauded investors in a tech startup named Servergy by failing to disclose his financial ties to the company while recruiting investors. Despite Paxton’s arguments claiming a violation of his right to a speedy trial, the judge ruled against him, setting the stage for a felony fraud trial scheduled to commence on April 15.
Paxton, who has been under indictment for almost nine years, sat quietly through the hearing as the judge delivered her decision. The legal proceedings have been marked by numerous delays, including debates over venue, changes in judicial oversight, and disputes over the compensation of special prosecutors.
If convicted on the securities fraud charges, Paxton could face a sentence of up to 99 years in prison. The drawn-out legal battle has not deterred Paxton’s high-profile activities as the Attorney General of Texas. Known for his staunch opposition to abortion access and LGBTQ rights, as well as his advocacy for stricter border security and immigration policies, Paxton remains a prominent figure in state politics.
In addition to the securities fraud case, Paxton has faced other legal challenges. Last year, he narrowly avoided impeachment proceedings related to allegations of political favoritism, and his office is currently embroiled in a whistleblower lawsuit stemming from the same allegations. Furthermore, Paxton is facing legal action from a State Bar of Texas disciplinary panel regarding his involvement in contesting the results of the 2020 presidential election.
