White convicted on voter fraud charges, successor named

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Nearly a year after he was indicted on voter fraud charges, Indiana Secretary of State Charlie White has been found guilty on six felony charges.

A Hamilton County jury deliberated for nearly twelve hours before announcing their verdict just after 2:00am Saturday morning.

White was initially charged on seven counts including false registration, voting in another precinct, and perjury. He was acquitted on a fraud charge. No sentencing date has been set.

Under Indiana law, a convicted felon may not serve in office. Governor Mitch Daniels has already appointed an interim successor to handle the office in the wake of White's conviction.

Daniels appointed Deputy Secretary of State Jerry Bonnet to serve in White's place. Bonnet has worked in the Secretary's office since 2005.

Daniels says Bonnet will serve until a permanent appointment is made. However, if a judge decides to lessen White's verdict to a misdemeanor there is a chance he could be reinstated.