Sentencing date set for NATO protesters

A Cook County judge has set a tentative date for post-trial motions and sentencing of three NATO summit protesters acquitted of Illinois terrorism charges but convicted on lesser crimes.

Authorities say 22-year-old Brian Church, 25-year-old Brent Betterly and 29-year-old Jared Chase plotted Molotov cocktail attacks on several high-profile targets during the 2012 NATO summit in Chicago. The three were arrested after four Molotov cocktails were made with beer bottles at their apartments.

Judge Thaddeus Wilson said Friday he will hear arguments on motions on April 25, adding if a new trial isn't granted he will sentence them later that day.

The activists face up to 30 years in prison under state sentencing guidelines, though they'll likely receive far less. One possibility is that a judge releases them on time served.