Mr McDonnell, who left office in January, was once a rising star of the Republican Party. 

 

A federal jury concluded that he and his wife - who say they are now estranged² - used his office to endorse³ the dietary supplements of a businessman in return for lavish⁴ gifts and loans. 

 

They will be sentenced on 6 January.

 

Mr McDonnell, 60, was convicted on 11 charges, including wire fraud and receiving property based on his official duties.

 

His wife, former first lady Maureen McDonnell, 60, was found guilty on nine of the charges.

 

They were both found not guilty of falsifying financial statements.

 

Both bowed their heads and wept as the jury delivered their verdicts of guilty.

 

Although the McDonnells can appeal, they could face years in prison.

 

"This is a difficult and disappointing day for the commonwealth⁵ and its citizens," said the US Attorney for Virginia's Eastern District, Dana Boente, outside the courthouse in the state capital Richmond.

 

"Public service frequently requires sacrifice and almost always requires financial sacrifice."

 

Mr McDonnell was once considered a possible running mate for presidential candidate Mitt⁶ Romney in 2012.

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