"Wilkinson had been charged with 22 crimes. But he struck a deal last week with the government to cooperate in exchange for prosecutors recommending a reduction in his sentence.The ultimate is five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, but maximum penalties are rare in federal court for first-time offenders. The exact sentence is up to Head, who will consider complicated federal guidelines before punishing Wilkinson on Feb. 25.
"I think the calculation of these guidelines will be a challenge," Head said. Wilkinson's camp is hoping for no more than six months' prison time, possibly just probation.
Political crime pays. You steal for decades, serve a year or less of time and then come out for no-work private sector jobs from your political pals. Nice work if you can get it.