Former Rep. Steve Stockman, R-Texas., told a federal magistrate Wednesday that he cannot afford a lawyer and has only $17 in his bank account amid charges that he stole $800,000 in donations that were slated to go to conservative organizations.
According to the Houston Chronicle, U.S. Magistrate Judge Nancy Johnson agreed to appoint a lawyer to take Stockman’s case after the former congressman said that he needed to dismiss his hand-picked lawyers and wanted to court to re-appoint them to the case at the expense of the government. Johnson said she would consider the request.
His hearing was postponed until Friday.
Stockman, who served in Congress for four years (1995-97, 2013-15), also confirmed to the judge details from his disclosure form, including that he owns a home, a rental property and two vans. He also discussed his personal finances and revealed that he has only $17 in his bank account, while his wife makes $6,000 a month.
The former congressman, along with two aides, was recently indicted on 28 counts, including for conspiracy, making false statements to the Federal Election Commission, excessive campaign contributions and money laundering.
Although the Clear Lake Republican is out on bond, he says he is unable to work because his job requires him to travel overseas. He is expected to plead not guilty to all 28 counts at Friday’s hearing and maintains his innocence.
Recently, he blamed the “deep state” for his arrest.
