TEXARKANA, Ark. (AP) Tony Alamo (uh-LAH'-moh) could spend the rest of his life in prison after the evangelist was convicted of taking five girls across state lines for sex.

An ArKansas jury found the 74-year-old guilty of transporting girls as young as 9. Women told jurors that Alamo "married" them in private ceremonies while they were minors. Each said they were taken beyond Arkansas' borders for Alamo's sexual gratification.

Each count is punishable by 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing will be held in six to eight weeks.

As he was escorted to a waiting U.S. marshal's vehicle, Alamo said he's "just another one of the prophets that went to jail for the Gospel." A defense lawyer says the evidence against Alamo was insufficient, and that the preacher will appeal.

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