Harry Thomas, Jr. Sentenced to 38 Months in Federal Prison

Former D.C. Council member Harry Thomas, Jr. was sentenced to 38 months in federal prison for stealing $350,000 in District funds that were allocated for a youth sports program. .

Thomas lied about the income on his tax returns, though he used the monies to purchase an Audi SUV, golfing vacations and more. Federal agents . 

“Harry Thomas, Jr. was driven by greed to steal from the very children he claimed to champion,” said U.S. Attorney Ronald Machen in a prepared statement.

U.S. District Judge John D. Bates could have used federal sentencing guidelines that recommend a sentence between 41 and 51 months, according to the Washington Post. The Post reports that prosecutors suggested 46 months and the defense argued for a reduced 18-month sentence.

"The sentence imposed on former Councilmember Thomas sends a strong message to those who would abuse the power of their District government positions to enrich themselves at the expense of the public:  There will be serious consequences for such unlawful actions," said D.C. Attorney General Irvin Nathan in a prepared statement.