VINTON -- A couple that own a restaurant were convicted earlier this month of employing workers in the United States without permission.

A jury found Sadik Seferi, 42, and Nicole Tipton, 24, both of Vinton, guilty of harboring illegal aliens and conspiracy to hire illegal aliens. The convictions Friday followed a trial in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids.

Both face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Seferi was taken into custody pending a detention hearing Thursday. Tipton remains free on bond.

The two operated the Gallery Restaurant in Vinton, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Reinert said they engaged in a pattern of hiring illegal aliens. They paid workers in cash and provided an apartment for employees, according to evidence presented at trial.

The trial lasted about two days. Jurors deliberated for two and a half hours before reaching a verdict.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.