Judge Pat Priest ruled today that former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Sugarland) will have to stand trial for the charge of money laundering but dismissed the charge of conspiracy to violate the Texas Election Code.  The more serious charge is that of money laundering.  Judge Priest noted that the state may appeal his ruling and has 15-days to do so.  He announced that there he would hold no hearings until the state has had its opportunity to appeal or informs him there will be no appeal.  The fact that the money laundering charge remains will bar DeLay from reclaiming his Congressional leadership position.  DeLay has several additional motions pending before Judge Priest and it is unlikely that the way will be cleared for a trial date to be set until early next year.  

The Travis County District Attorney's Office released the following statement:
"We have received the opinion from Judge Priest and we are studying it. We have made no decision about whether to appeal any part of his ruling. We will have no further comment at this time."

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