Domestic diva Martha Stewart has joined the growing list of celebrities with a criminal record after being found guilty of four counts related to a suspicious stock sale.
The 62-year-old lifestyle guru, famed for her catchphrase "It's a good thing", was found guilty in a New York courtroom of conspiracy and obstruction of justice as well as two counts of making false statements. Each charge, stemming from accusations that Martha received an improper stock tip about biotechnology company ImClone, carries a $250,000 fine and maximum prison sentence of five years. However, legal experts have predicted a one- to three-year penalty will be more likely when sentencing is announced on June 17.
In a statement on her official website, Martha said she was "obviously distressed" by the jury's verdict. She continues: " I will appeal the verdict and continue to fight to clear my name. I believe in the fairness of the judicial system and remain confident that I will ultimately prevail."
Once considered a prime example of the American dream, the teachers' daughter turned her humble beginnings into a multi-million dollar empire – including magazines, books, TV shows and home products – by starting with a small catering business.
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