Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of startup Theranos, has been convicted of defrauding investors by tricking them into believing that her company had developed a revolutionary medical device. After a three-month trial, the jury found Holmes guilty on two counts of wire fraud and two counts of conspiracy to commit fraud. She now faces the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for each count.

Federal prosecutors portrayed Holmes as a fraudster driven by a desire for fame and fortune. Despite her claims of being a visionary trailblazer, the trial exposed the dangers of the “fake it ’til you make it” ethos prevalent in Silicon Valley. Holmes attempted to follow in the footsteps of successful tech entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs, but her deceitful actions have brought her downfall.

The verdict has significant implications for the tech industry, as it may temporarily curb the exaggerated promises and bravado that have become synonymous with innovation in Silicon Valley. Holmes, who remained seated and emotionless as the verdicts were read, now awaits sentencing, where the judge will determine the length of her prison term.

Throughout the trial, Holmes painted herself as a victim, alleging emotional and sexual abuse by her former lover and business partner, Sunny Balwani. She also claimed to have been abused by her former lover. However, the jury deadlocked on three charges, creating a mixed outcome for the prosecution.

Despite her conviction, Holmes retains support from some influential figures. Theranos attracted substantial investments from billionaires such as Rupert Murdoch and Larry Ellison, as well as prominent political figures like former President Bill Clinton and former Vice President Joe Biden. Holmes’ downfall has captured public attention and will be further explored in a Hulu TV series called “The Dropout.”

Holmes’ original goal was to revolutionize medical testing by developing a device that could detect numerous diseases with just a few drops of blood. However, evidence presented during the trial revealed that Theranos’ technology produced inaccurate results, leading to potential harm for patients. Holmes also fabricated partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies, further damaging her credibility.

During her testimony, Holmes expressed remorse for some of her actions but claimed to have forgotten details surrounding key events. She shifted blame onto Balwani, accusing him of failing to address the company’s laboratory issues and subjecting her to abuse.

The conviction of Elizabeth Holmes marks the end of a once-promising career and serves as a warning to other ambitious entrepreneurs about the consequences of deceit and hubris. The tech industry will surely be affected by this high-profile case, as it reevaluates its approach to innovative ideas and the importance of transparency.