Contractor convicted of bribing ex-Congressman

A military contractor is looking at up to 20 years in prison following his conviction on charges he bribed a former congressman.

According to USA Today's web site, "A federal jury in San Diego convicted Brent Wilkes, 53, of Poway of 13 felonies for conspiracy, bribery, money laundering and wire fraud. Prosecutors said he plied [Randy "Duke"] Cunningham with expensive meals, trips, a yacht, mortgage payments on a mansion and prostitutes."

This is not the first time the former Congressman has had a brush with the law. The Republican resigned from office in November 2005 after pleading guilty to corruption charges and is now serving an eight-year prison term.

Yet, through the whole ordeal, Wilkes has steadfastly maintained his innocence. .

"I don't believe this case was proved beyond a reasonable doubt," said Wilkes' attorney, Mark Geragos, outside court. "Obviously I'm very disappointed. I think he shares the confidence that we'll get it reversed."

In addition, two co-conspirators, including a former employee of Wilkes, also pleaded guilty to felonies in their dealings with Cunningham.