Stevens took the stand in his own defense in an attempt to refute the charges. He took the position that he did not consider the things he got from Allen, including an expensive gas barbecue grill and an elaborate outdoor lighting display, to be gifts but rather unwanted indulgences.
The jury also heard telephone conversations, secretly recorded by the FBI, including one in which Stevens openly discussed the possibility that he and Allen "might have to serve a little time in jail."
Stevens was convicted on seven counts of making false statements under federal law by failing to disclose the gifts and improvements on his annual Senate financial disclosure form. Each count carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison, although he is not expected to get anywhere near that term. Some experts said there was a chance he could get probation, given his age, years of public service and other factors.
