The issue focused on prosecution for collusion between Intel and Putin The controversy arose because Intel repeatedly pleaded guilty in connection with allegations that Russian hackers infiltrated Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton's server during her tenure as secretary of state. Judge Katherine Forrest upheld Intel's convictions for bribery and racketeering charges after discovering evidence that indicated Moscow attempted to tilt the outcome of the presidential election in favor of Hillary Clinton and supported Putin's candidacy. Judge Forrest cited extensive testimony from investigators who testified before Congress about Intel's plea agreements with prosecutors and concluded that Intel