Jacksons' Sentencing Scheduled for Aug. 14

Couple pleaded guilty to misusing campaign funds and tax fraud

Disgraced former Illinois Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., and his wife, Sandi, will learn their fate on August 14.

A judge Tuesday scheduled the sentencing hearing for the couple, who pleaded guilty to charges of misusing campaign funds and tax fraud.

The sentencing hearing was originally scheduled for Wednesday, but U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson postponed the hearing on Monday to "accommodate the court."

Jackson pleaded guilty in February to misusing campaign funds. He admitted in court that he spent $750,000 of campaign cash on personal items -- like a $4,600 Michael Jackson fedora and a $1,500 black-and-red cashmere cape, according to the charges against him -- and pleaded guilty to several charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, mail fraud and false statements.

Sandi Jackson pleaded guilty on the same day to tax fraud.

The couple reportedly hired eight lawyers ahead of the sentencing.

Prosecutors recommended Jackson get four years in prison and Sandi Jackson get 18 months.

The Jacksons have two school-aged children, and the judge must decide whether to stagger their sentences so that they won't both be in prison at the same time.

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