Sentencing Postponed For Jesse Jackson Jr., Sandi

UPDATE: Sentencing Re-Scheduled for Aug. 14

A federal judge on Monday postponed the sentencing hearing for former Illinois Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and his wife, noting it was being done to "accommodate the court" and not at the request of the couple's attorneys or the prosecution.

U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson in Washington, D.C., posted a brief note on the court's docket saying Wednesday's hearing for the Chicago Democrat and his wife would be held later.

She didn't set a new date.

The couple originally was scheduled to be sentenced on charges of misusing campaign funds and tax fraud at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

The Monday announcement comes days after federal prosecutors announced in Washington they want to include the Jacksons' two homes in forfeiture proceedings as they seek $750,000 in what even the one-time power couple admit were ill-gotten gains.

Prosecutors said they would not try to kick the couple and their children out of their homes. Rather, they insist they are only seeking whatever equity the Jacksons have in those homes.

Jackson in February pleaded guilty to misusing campaign funds. Jackson acknowledged 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.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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