Jury finds Ellsworth guilty of official misconduct

Former Montana state Senate President Jason Ellsworth has been found guilty of misdemeanor criminal official misconduct by a Helena jury. The conviction stems from his awarding $170,000 in no-bid contracts to a company linked to a long-time business associate. The jury's decision, reached after nearly four hours of deliberation, could result in Ellsworth facing up to six months in jail. This case highlights the scrutiny surrounding political appointments and the ethical implications of close business relationships in public office.