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Prosecutors Seek Forfeiture of Jesse Jackson Jr.’s Homes

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Federal prosecutors made a request Friday to have the federal government seize the two houses of former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. and his wife, Sandi.

The Illinois Democrat, who resigned from Congress in November, and his wife are to be sentenced Wednesday. Jackson admitted last year that he used $750,000 in campaign funds to buy groceries and pay for luxury items, including jewelry, furniture and celebrity memorabilia.

In their motion before the U.S. District Court, prosecutors asked that Jackson forfeit homes in Chicago and Washington. They also seek to seize a retirement account worth about $80,000.

Jackson has been ordered to pay a fine of $750,000, but his attorneys said in a court filing this month that he “has no ability to pay” and cannot work because of his health. Last year, Jackson spent several months on leave from Congress and sought treatment at the Mayo Clinic for bipolar disorder.

Prosecutors recommend a four-year prison term for the former congressman and 18 months in jail for Sandi Jackson, a former Chicago alderman. She pleaded guilty to falsifying the couple’s tax returns over a six-year period.

Jackson’s attorneys request that he serve his prison time first.

As part of his plea agreement, Jackson was ordered to turn over 24 items he purchased with campaign money. Prosecutors say Jackson has turned in only 12 items, worth about $21,000.

Source: USA Today

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