Joe Bruno Guilty on Two Felony Counts

He's a Republican, so it'll be big news. No need to play name that party.

Former Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno, the Republican kingpin who became a symbol of New York's clubby political culture, was convicted Monday on two of eight felony federal corruption counts.

The long-awaited verdict sends an ominous warning to the entire Albany establishment.

An upstate jury of seven women and five men found Bruno guilty on two counts, acquitted him on five, and did not come to agreement on an eight.

Bruno was convicted of taking 11 payments from companies for consulting work he never performed.

He was also convicted on of failing to disclose his participation in a partnership involving thoroughbred race horses.

He faces up to 20 years in jail on each count when sentenced March 31.

Leaving the courthouse, a shaken Bruno promised an appeal.

"It goes without saying that I'm very very disappointed in the verdict that I just heard and the legal process is going to continue," Bruno said. "In my mind and in my heart, it is not over until it's over. And I think it's far from over."

Bruno was arch-enemy of Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer, who unleashed the state police and his goons against Bruno in the Troopergate scandal. Spitzer was never held accountable for that egregious indiscretion and now spends his time giving ethics lectures at Harvard.

Now 80, it seems unlikely Bruno will be seeing any substantial jailtime, if any.

Mr. Bruno was released on his own recognizance. U.S. District Court Judge Gary Sharpe declined requests by prosecutors that Mr. Bruno turn in his passport.

Assistant U.S. Attorney William Pericak declined immediate comment.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 31. Defense lawyer William Dreyer said he would file a motion to dismiss the conviction and, if that fails, would appeal.

Prosecutors have said they want restitution but haven't calculated the precise amount, or the potential prison term. Authorities initially said he could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count.

Last week Democrat State Senator Hiram Monserratte was given probation and a minor fine for the beating of his girlfriend so considering Bruno's offenses and age, a fine seems likely.