Lawyers for Dennis Hastert Ask for Sentencing Delay Due to Health Concerns

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CHICAGO, IL — Lawyers for Dennis Hastert have asked to have his sentencing delayed due to health concerns for the former U.S. Speaker of the House.

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 when he began to receive care from home, according to a report from the Chicago Tribune.

“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,” Hastert’s lawyer John Gallo wrote in a court filing, according to report.

Hastert is currently scheduled to be sentenced Feb. 29. His lawyers are asking for a status hearing March 7.

Hastert pleaded guilty in October to charges of lying to the FBI and evading currency reports. He will face 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.