Hastert attorneys ask for health-related sentencing delay
Attorneys for Dennis Hastert have asked that the former U.S. House speaker's sentencing be delayed as he continues to recover from a stroke and surgery.
Hastert pleaded guilty last year to federal charges he lied to the FBI about $1.7 million in hush money he paid to cover past misconduct.
In a filing, his attorneys say Hastert was released from the hospital Jan. 15 following a stroke in November and surgery. Because of Hastert's health issues, which included a blood infection, they argue they haven't been able to prepare for the Feb. 29 sentencing.
"Mr. Hastert will require continuing home care and rehabilitation for at least four to six weeks to treat the above-mentioned three main conditions," the filing reads. "Mr. Hastert continues to need assistance for most daily activities, and also needs both a walker and a leg brace to walk in his household."
The attorneys requested a hearing for March 7 for updates.
Prosecutors last year recommended a sentence of zero to six months in prison.
Hastert, a Plano Republican, is the longest-serving Republican House speaker in history and held the gavel during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He left office shortly after the 2006 election when Democrats won control of the House.