Governor's former top fundraiser pleads guilty

Impeached Gov. Rod Blagojevich's former chief fundraiser has admitted he illegally used corporate funds to pay gambling debts and personal expenses.

Christopher G. Kelly pleaded guilty to those charges Friday and that he illegally structured financial transactions in an effort to hide them from the federal government. The indictment against the 50-year-old did not touch on politics.

Kelly is a roofing contractor and consultant. He has helped to raise millions of dollars for Blagojevich's campaign and could give federal prosecutors an inside look at the workings of the governor's administration.

Blagojevich has been charged with using his position to get personal and professional favors, including trying to sell off the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by President-elect Barack Obama. Blagojevich has denied any wrongdoing.

Kelly could be sent to prison for a total of eight years.