Dennis Hastert Almost Died, Judge Delays Sentencing

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

CHICAGO, IL — Attorneys for Dennis Hastert argued in federal court Thursday morning that his sentencing should be delayed due to health issues that almost killed the former U.S. Speaker of the House.

The arguments were reportedly persuasive enough for Judge Thomas M. Durkin, who rescheduled Hastert’s sentencing to April 8, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Hastert can reportedly feed himself, but “needs help for all other basic functions of daily living,” the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

Hastert suffered a stroke in November and was also treated for sepsis in addition to having two surgeries performed on his back. He was hospitalized until Jan. 15. At that time, he began to receive care from home.

Hastert pleaded guilty in October 2015 to charges of lying to the FBI and evading currency reports. He faces probation or up to six months in jail for allegedly making structured withdrawals from a bank so as not to have to report them and in order to pay $3.5 million in hush-money to a person only identified as Individual A.

Hastert was paying this person over alleged sexual misconduct that took place at Yorkville High School when Hastert was a teacher and wrestling coach.

Hastert pleaded not guilty in June to the charges before reversing his plea in October.