Jesse Jackson pleads guilty to conspiracy

[oberliner]

Source: CBS News

Former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., D-Ill., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy today in a U.S. District Court, after allegedly misusing hundreds of thousands of campaign dollars on personal expenses like a gold-plated Rolex and fur capes for his wife.

"I am guilty, your honor," Jackson said to Judge Robert Wilkins. In a subdued but clear voice, Jackson told the judge that he accepts responsibility for his actions.

Federal prosecutors formally charged Jackson on Friday for misusing $750,000 in campaign funds between August 2005 and July 2012.

The conspiracy charge carries a maximum statutory penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and other penalties. The former Illinois lawmaker could possibly serve between 46 and 57 months in prison -- that is the range of time the defense and government prosecutors agreed to. However, the judge noted he is not bound by that. Sentencing is June 28.

Read more: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57570295/jesse-jackson-pleads-guilty-to-conspiracy/

[leftyohiolib]

1. is tom delay in prison yet?

[hrmjustin]

4. No but he is out while he is appealing his sentence.

Jackson plead guilty so he will go right to jail. Can't wait to see Delay go to jail. Jackson and delay made their own beds and will now have to sleep in them.

[leftyohiolib]

5. thanks for pointng that out - i missed that connection - dopey of me

[hrmjustin]

6. Not dopey, I think they have been stretching the appeals thing on purpose.

The SOB should be in jail now. I always thought he was satan, but can satan go to jail?

[goclark]

2. Don't recall DeLay

And, what about G.W. Bush and his buddies.
According to Rachel , they should be looking at bars.

[Light House]

3. No doubt.

Doesn't excuse Jesse Jackson Jr. though.
Glad he's taking responsibility for, and owning up to his crime, unlike the repugs.

[frylock]

7. you'd have to have an AG with the courage and conviction..

to bring charges. instead, we're stuck with the hapless Eric Holder.

[Pterodactyl]

8. What a disgrace! Lock 'im up.

[annm4peace]

9. He has a serious mental illness

Many people with Bipolar illness have going through their bank accts.

What I didn't get is how could have access to the campaign money... shouldn't there be a 2nd signer on the checks or some other oversite?

[cali]

10. yeah, but they don't do it over years and years.

Manic phases do not last that long.