Jesse Jackson Jr Signs Plea Deal
Former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL) resigned from Congress three months ago amid corruption accusations and after being treated for depression. NBC News reports today that he has signed a plea deal that may result in prison time.
Jackson’s case is being handled by the US Attorney’s office in Washington DC. While no public announcement is expected today, those with knowledge of the investigation believe the loose ends now deal with Jackson’s wife, former Alderman Sandi Jackson, and whether or not she is ultimately charged. Under the terms of the deal Jackson signed, he pleads guilty and his fate – as to jail time – would be in the hands of a federal judge, not yet assigned. He would repay the government hundreds of thousands of dollars – for items like the $40,000 Rolex watch, travel expenses for a woman he described as a “social acquaintance” and furniture purchased for his home. Converting campaign contributions for personal use is strictly prohibited by federal law. It opens Jackson up to “not more than 5 years” in prison.
Labels: Congress, Democrats, Illinois, U.S. House