News Local/State

Sentencing For Jackson Jr., Wife Set For August

 

A federal judge has set a new sentencing date for former Illinois Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and his wife.

U.S. District Judge Amy Berman in Washington, D.C., scheduled the hearing for Aug. 14.

Jackson pleaded guilty this year to spending $750,000 in campaign funds on personal items, including mounted elk heads and a gold-plated Rolex watch. His wife, former Chicago alderman Sandi Jackson, pleaded guilty to filing false joint tax returns.

They had been scheduled for sentencing Wednesday. But Berman postponed the hearing on Monday to accommodate the court.

Jackson is the son of civil rights leader the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. He resigned his office in November, citing health problems.

Jackson faces a maximum five-year prison term. He also must repay the $750,0 and could face other financial penalties.