Jail Cell

By Josh Lanier From Daily Voice

A federal jury has found former deputy state budget director Konstantinos “Kosta” Diamantis guilty on all charges in his corruption trial.

Diamantis was convicted of two counts of extortion, two counts of bribery, four counts of conspiracy, and several counts of making false statements. Prosecutors said he used his powerful position overseeing Connecticut’s school construction program to demand bribes and secure a job for his daughter in exchange for steering work to contractors.

Diamantis admitted to taking payments but claimed they were for work outside his state role. He denied breaking any laws.

The two-week trial ended after three days of jury deliberations. Legal experts said the length of time reflected the complexity of the multiple charges.

Judge Stefan Underhill discussed Diamantis’ release after the verdict. Prosecutors questioned his recent effort to obtain Greek citizenship. Diamantis said he started the process in March and got a Greek passport to handle legal matters involving property owned by his father. He told the court he has no plans to leave the country. The judge ordered him to turn over the passport if it is returned to him.

Gov. Ned Lamont responded to the verdict with a strong statement.

“Public service is a public trust,” Lamont said. “The conviction of Mr. Diamantis is a stark reminder that when that trust is violated, there are consequences. Our state places a great deal of trust in our government, and that trust is harmed by rogue, bad actors like this.”

Lamont said his administration has taken steps to “ensure this can never happen again,” adding that reforms “have significantly reduced risk, improved accountability, and helped rebuild trust.”

Diamantis’ sentencing is scheduled for January.