Blago Fundraiser Going to Prison
Kelly sentenced in federal court
Updated 6:22 PM CST, Mon, Jun 22, 2009
Ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich's former top fundraiser was sentenced Monday to more than three years in prison.
Christopher Kelly apologized profusely to U.S. District Judge Elaine Bucklo, but she was unmoved and handed down the 37-month prison term, just shy of the maximum four year sentence he faced. Kelly was also ordered to pay more than $600,000 in restitution to the government.
"I am deeply sorry to the court and the people I've embarrassed by my actions," Kelly told the judge. "I know they're wrong. I'm sorry, your honor."
Kelly, 52, is the former member of Blagojevich's inner circle who admitted to obstructing the Internal Revenue Service and hiding almost $500,000 in company funds to pay gambling debts.
Kelly pleaded guilty in January. He admitted to using company funds to pay a bookie and a casino, and to buy and furnish a home.
He also acknowledged illegally structuring cash withdrawals from his account.
Copyright Associated Press / NBC Chicago
First Published: Jun 22, 2009 10:14 AM CST
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