Former Houston County Assistant District Attorney Mark Johnson was found guilty on ethics charges after a Houston County jury returned six guilty verdicts Thursday afternoon.
As a result of his six felony convictions, Johnson has been taken into custody.
Throughout the four-day trial, the Houston County jury heard evidence that Johnson used his position as a county prosecutor to solicit and receive sexual favors for himself from three defendants. In one situation, Johnson solicited an escort from a defendant facing life in prison for a drug trafficking charge. Johnson later solicited that same defendant for another girl who had just been released from prison.
In addition, Johnson solicited and received a sexual photo and, in exchange, helped a female defendant stay out of court-ordered drug rehabilitation so that he could continue to communicate with her in Houston County. Johnson also solicited sexual photos and sexual contact and then helped a female defendant avoid active warrants and fine deadlines that resulted from convictions over which he was the prosecutor.
On Thursday, the jury convicted Johnson on all counts in the indictment.
“This is a clear case of someone habitually using their position to exploit vulnerable women for his own gratification,” Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said on Friday. “Mr. Johnson violated the public trust by taking advantage of the community he swore to serve and protect, and he now must be held accountable for his crimes.”
Johnson faces possible sentences of two to 20 years for each conviction. Sentencing will occur at a later date.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
