WASHINGTON (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., holding back tears, entered a guilty plea today in federal court to criminal charges that he engaged in a scheme to spend $750,000 in campaign funds on personal items.
He faces 46 to 57 months in prison under a plea deal with prosecutors
Before entering the plea to the conspiracy charge, Jackson told U.S. District Judge Robert L. Wilkins, "I've never been more clear in my life" in his decision to plead guilty.
Later, when Judge Wilkins asked if Jackson committed the acts outlined in court papers, the former congressman replied, "I did these things." He added later, "Sir, for years I lived in my campaign," and used money from the campaign for personal use.
Jackson dabbed his face with tissues, and at point a court employee brought some tissues to Jackson's lawyer, who gave them to the ex-congressman.
Jackson told the judge he was waiving his right to trial.
"In perfect candor, your honor, I have no interest in wasting the taxpayers' time or money," he said.
Comments
I cannot believe that a democrat from the Chicago area is actually being accused of unethical conduct. When is the last time that happened??? Especially being the son of that revered gentleman, Thee Reverend Jesse Jackson. (bugles sounding in the background).
Please say it ain't so!!!
Can't make up stuff this good!!!
A crook just like his father. Apple doenst fall far from the tree in this case.
Why isn't daddy rallying around sonny? Oh wait.... Cuz there's no Implied racism here!!! It's all of a sudden colorless... If a white man did this he would be calling for his head!!! Finally found a way to shut all the Jesse Jackson's up! Hypocritical a$&@ole!!! Pull the racism card now!