The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld former Paintsville Mayor Robert Porter’s conviction for misusing city funds.

In 2016, a federal jury found Porter guilty of using his power and influence to receive free utility service at two homes, and used city funds to pay for personal expenses. He was sentenced to 48 months in prison. Porter has since challenged his conviction, saying prosecutors did not present sufficient evidence to convict him and calling into question witness statements he was not able to cross-examine. However, today, the appellate court disagreed, allowing Porter’s conviction to stand.