HOUSTON, Feb. 23 (UPI) -- A federal judge in Texas has pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and retired from the bench as part of a plea deal.
U.S. District Judge Samuel Kent's decision averts a trial on that charge and five other charges that he sexually abused two female employees between 2003 and 2007, the Houston Chronicle reported Monday.
The obstruction charge stems from allegations he lied during a judicial misconduct hearing.
"Judge Kent believes that this settlement is in the best interest of all involved," his attorney, Dick DeGuerin, said.
"A trial would have been long, embarrassing and difficult for all involved," DeGuerin added. He said Kent has retired from the bench.
Kent, 59, faces up to 20 years in prison on the obstruction charge. Prosecutors have suggested he be sentenced to three years in prison, the newspaper reported. His sentencing is scheduled for May 11.
