Overview

• The sentencing hearing is taking place at Chicago’s Dirksen U.S. Courthouse under Judge John Robert “Jack” Blakey
• Federal prosecutors have urged a 12.5-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $2.5 million for the 83-year-old former speaker
• Madigan’s attorneys have asked for home confinement followed by probation and community service instead of a lengthy prison term
• Judge Blakey, noted for his expertise in public corruption laws, holds full discretion to determine the final sentence
• The outcome will test federal efforts to punish political corruption and shape deterrence for future misconduct