Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich could be one step closer to learning his sentencing fate.
Court papers on sentencing guidelines are expected to be filed Friday, and sources indicate federal prosecutors could seek a stiff penalty of 30 years to life.
The final call, though, is ultimately up to Judge James Zagel on Oct. 6, Blagojevich's sentencing date that's speculated could be delayed. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office said Thursday the government has not publicly or privately recommended a sentence.
"The government has submitted a calculation of the advisory sentencing guidelines, as it is required to do in all cases," said spokesman Randall Samborn in a statement. "The government submitted that calculation to the probation office as is standard practice and we will not comment on those calculations publicly.”
Sources with knowledge of the sentencing guidelines said the feds will ask for 30 years to life. But Blagojevich's attorneys plan to counter that.
"Assuming the rumor is correct, that's the government's position," said Blagojevich's attorney, Sheldon Sorosky on Thursday. "It's cruel, it's mean-spirited, it's ridiculous, and we will make a submission to Judge Zagel ... which will be far, far less than this government rumor."
