PIERRE, S.D. (AP) A jury has convicted former South Dakota lawmaker Ted Klaudt (KLOWT) of raping two former foster daughters by touching their breasts and genitals in phony examinations he said would help them sell their reproductive eggs.

The jury reached the guilty verdict about three hours after it started deliberations tonight.

Circuit Judge James W. Anderson tentatively set sentencing for January 4th Pierre. He says state law requires that Klaudt undergo a psycho-sexual evaluation before sentencing.

Klaudt was convicted on four counts of second-degree rape. He could be sentenced to up to 25 years in prison on each count.

Two of Klaudt's former foster daughters testified he touched them in examinations he said were required to determine whether they were healthy enough to sell their eggs to infertile couples.

He told them they could make $10,000 or more for each donation.

Klaudt also is charged with rape and other offenses in Corson County, where he lives. His trial on the Corson County charges is scheduled to begin next Tuesday Deadwood.

(By AP Writer Chet Brokaw) (Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-06-07 2107CST | save this article / add to your favorites list