https://nripulse.com/county-judge-kp-george-arrested-on-felony-money-laundering-charges/

Fort Bend County Judge KP George was arrested last week on two felony charges of money laundering, marking the latest chapter in a series of legal troubles for the Indian American public official.

According to jail records, George was booked into the county jail on April 4 around 3:30 p.m. and was released shortly thereafter upon posting a $20,000 bail. The charges involve alleged financial activity between January 12 and April 22, 2019, with amounts reportedly ranging between $30,000 and $150,000. Each count carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

The arrest stems from an ongoing investigation that also includes allegations of wire fraud and tampering with a campaign finance report. These charges are separate from a previous 2023 indictment, where George and his then-chief of staff Taral Patel were accused of using fake social media accounts to fabricate racist attacks during George’s 2022 re-election campaign.

In a public statement, George strongly denied any wrongdoing and described the charges as politically motivated. “I have full faith in the judicial system and will vigorously defend my innocence,” he said. He also criticized the District Attorney’s office for what he described as “improper treatment.”

The Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office has pushed back against those claims, maintaining that the investigation was conducted ethically and within legal bounds.

The arrest has led to mounting political pressure. The Fort Bend County Democratic Party has called for George’s resignation. “These serious charges reflect a lack of good judgment and have shaken public trust,” said Party Chair Fred Taylor.

Despite the controversy, George remains in office and has indicated he will continue to serve as County Judge while he fights the charges.

KP George, who was elected in 2018, is the first person of South Asian descent to hold the position of County Judge in Fort Bend County, which is one of the most diverse counties in Texas.