Citing a deep remorse and health problems, attorneys for former House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert asked a federal judge to sentence him to probation rather than time in jail for charges related to hush money payments he made to cover up past misconduct.
Defense attorney Thomas Green submitted a sentencing memo Wednesday describing Hastert’s fall from grace as “swift and devastating,” and asked that Judge Thomas M. Durkin consider the totality of his life and his years in public service.
“First and foremost, Hastert is deeply sorry and apologizes for his misconduct that occurred decades ago and the resulting harm he caused to others,” Mr. Green wrote in the court filing.
The Illinois Republican pleaded guilty in last year to violating bank laws as he sought to pay $3.5 million in hush money to a person in order to cover up past “misconduct.”
The misconduct dates back to the time Hastert was a teacher and wrestling coach at an Illinois high school. Hastert taught at Yorkville High School from 1965 to 1981 before entering politics.
The Associated Press and other media outlets, citing anonymous sources, have reported that Hastert wanted to hide claims that he sexually molested someone.
The sentencing memo from Hastert’s attorneys stops short of acknowledging the accusations of sexual abuse.
“Neither we as his lawyers, nor Mr. Hastert, have the present insight to understand and reconcile the unfortunate and harmful incidents he caused decades ago with the enduring achievements, leadership, and generosity that earned him extraordinary affection and respect throughout this country during his many years of public service,” the sentencing memo from Mr. Green states. “What we do know is that he will stand before the Court having deteriorated both physically and emotionally, undoubtedly in part due to public shaming and humiliation of an unprecedented degree.”
Disclosures from a closed March hearing in the case have indicated that an alleged sex abuse victim could testify at Hastert’s sentencing hearing, scheduled for April 27.
The sentencing memo filed by Hastert’s attorneys highlights the shame and scorn the former politician has endured since the charges were first filed.
“Since his indictment, Mr. Hastert’s work and his reputation have become forever tainted,” the court filing states. “Mr. Hastert has been stung by the public repudiations of him that followed his indictment, including the removal of his portrait from the United States Capitol, the removal of his name from the public landmarks for which he passionately fought, and the characterization of his legacy as a ’black eye’ on his county.”
It also details significant health issues that have arisen since Hastert pled guilty in October. Hastert’s diabetes has become a problem, he’s been diagnosed with a rare blood stream infection, and he suffered a stroke while hospitalized.
The court filing characterized Hastert as needing daily assistance with most daily activities, such as getting out of bed, getting dressed, going to the bathroom, and bathing.
“As Mr. Hastert’s counsel, we respectfully request that the Court in imposing a sentence consider the totality of the circumstances that surround this violation, his regret and acceptance of responsibility, the cost that has already been exacted over the past year, as well as Mr. Hastert’s fragile medical condition,” the sentencing memo states.
Federal sentencing guidelines recommend a sentence between zero and six months in prison for the offense, though a judge could hand down a sentence of up to five years.
• Andrea Noble can be reached at anoble@washingtontimes.com.
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