Oregon Public Broadcasting

After deliberating for two days, a jury found Pete Seda guilty on two counts in federal court in Eugene Thursday. The co-founder of a Muslim charity was placed into the custody of U.S. Marshalls.

Pete Seda was convicted of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government and filing a false tax return. Seda co-founded the now defunct Al Haramain Islamic Foundation in Ashland, Oregon.

He is charged with helping to funnel $150,000 to Mujahadeen fighters in Chechnya in 2000. 

Defense Attorney Steven Wax spoke to reporters after the verdict.

Steven Wax: "The verdict is a devastating blow to Mr. Seda and his family. We do not feel that it reflects the truth of the charges or the truth of his life. We will be pursuing a just result in this case to the highest court in the land if need be. This fight is not yet over."

Prosecutors convinced Judge Michael Hogan to remand Seda to custody, calling him a flight risk.

Seda's wife, two sons, friends and supporters were in the courtroom for the verdict.

Portland attorney Brandon Mayfield was also present. He was erroneously linked by the FBI to the Madrid train bombings of 2004.