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* If you’ve been following our live coverage post, you know that Judge Zagel just refused to reduce former Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s 14-year prison sentence.
* The Question: Do you agree or disagree with Judge Zagel’s sentencing of Rod Blagojevich? Take the poll and then explain your answer in comments, please.
posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:10 pm
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He didn’t really accept responsibility. If he had, he would have saved two years.
Comment by Keyrock Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:12 pm
Blagojevich focused on his behavior while in prison, which wasn’t the point of the resentencing. He should have admitted he was corrupt.
Comment by Just Me Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:15 pm
I agree with Judge Zagel’s reasoning for status quo of sentence.
Comment by Lovie Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:15 pm
I’m no fan of Blago, but 5 counts got dropped and you don’t reduce the sentence?
Zagel is in the wrong.
Comment by Ravenswood Right Winger Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:15 pm
Keyrock
You are exactly correct.
Comment by Elementary Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:15 pm
Both Blago and Judge Zagel had a chance to revisit this sentence with nearly 5 years of reflection. I’ll always believe he was guilty and hopelessly arrogant in his original defense. That changed quite a bit today from following the feed. Was it an act? Maybe. But, 5 years ago he couldn’t even pretend he broke the law.
I’ll always believe this was setting an example. I’ll always believe that it’s been excessive by at least one-third.
Rod’s a very tough guy to offer any sympathy to. But, justice can be measured better than this. I’d hoped for some time to be shaved off. Didn’t happen.
Comment by A guy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:15 pm
He completely sold the office. He shook down a children’s hospital. Fourteen years is still a great deal for him. I would like to have seen him get double that.
Comment by Gooner Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:16 pm
I believe he deserved a reduction. The original sentence was harsh and then several charges dismissed. He deserved some leniency.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:17 pm
I agree. Nothing changed. If he would have accepted responsibility he would have a lesser sentence. Period.
Arguing that the actions were not for personal gain or policy gains means he is still not ready to admit what he did.
Comment by Former Bartender Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:17 pm
Pee in my coffee, I never forget. Could have given you 265 months.
Comment by Wow Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:17 pm
I agree with the judge.
It wasn’t a parole hearing to hear about all the great stuff he has done in prison.
He still has not accepted responsibility for the original crimes.
Comment by Lincoln Parker Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:18 pm
The sentence was light originally, which the appeals court noted. No reduction was appropriate.
Comment by Pandora Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:18 pm
Disagree. George Ryan only got six years, in part, for the 6 Willis Children. There is NO WAY what Blagojevich did was worse than that.
Comment by Smitty Irving Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:18 pm
The sentence is well within the sentencing guidelines. I’m not surprised that Zagel stuck to his guns.
Comment by Anonymouth Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:19 pm
It seems a great majority of the people that wanted the same sentence are white… What happened to being merciful or having a heart? Good grief people. Show some mercy and get a heart.
Comment by Anon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:20 pm
Hey Rich, I have a question for you or any of your readers: does he have to serve his full sentence, or are there mitigating factors which may reduce it????
Comment by Lovie Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:20 pm
FREE BLAGO!
Just keep him off the teevee/radio and forbid him to jog through my neighborhood.
He’s a mope and at this point only a danger to those who breathe in his hairspray.
He had no chance with Zagel. Maybe he could have gotten a few years taken off if he had shown remorse, but that still would leave years for him to do.
Maybe POTUS will throw a bone and commutation his way, but I wouldn’t bet on it.
Comment by IrishPirate Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:20 pm
The point was is to make an example of someone…14yrs is along sentence, I Rod would have said he was sorry
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:21 pm
There are likely still petitions for clemency pending from his time in office due to the backlog he created through his apathy. His use of that office was always for his own gain. His testimony today was more fit for a parole hearing, not a resentencing. Judge made the right call.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:21 pm
Agree. The dropped counts didn’t change the sentencing guidelines. He could have given him more time. He never said he committed a crime or accepted responsibility. Mistakes? really? His actions did serious damaged to the State and how it operates. Blago put us on the path that got us to where we are today. Keeping the same sentence shows how serious corruption is and that it should not be tolerate or accepted.
Comment by Hoping for Rational Thought Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:21 pm
The lying to the FBI was a set-up. The answer to their question was either fundraising plays no role in decisions (his answer - and not true) or that it does (a crime). He gave the standard line that any politician gives- that it does not. And we all know it is not true. Dear readers - that means every elected official you know is now one question from the FBI away from the big house.
Comment by Former Legslative Aide Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:22 pm
It’s tempting to vote “disagree” and advocate for a sentence reduction based on the dropped charges, emotional family testimony, and the testimonials from fellow inmates.
However, Judge Zagel cuts right to the heart of the matter when he observes that, regardless of Rod’s popularity in the joint and the pain to his loved ones, Rod brought this upon himself and has still not fully accepted responsibility for his criminal acts. The Judge followed the law and maintained the original sentence. I agree with and respect his decision.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:22 pm
===It seems a great majority of the people that wanted the same sentence are white… What happened to being merciful or having a heart? Good grief people. Show some mercy and get a heart. ===
Even if it never got further than “a thought exercise” the sale of a US Senate seat should not even get that far along in the process.
If you violate the public trust that badly in such a position of responsibility, you forfeit the right to mercy.
Comment by Graduaated College Student Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:23 pm
Agree with Lincoln Parker — Blago treated this hearing as a parole hearing. It wasn’t a parole hearing, it was a resentencing. Blago should have focused on the crimes he was convicted of, not his current behavior.
Comment by Just Me Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:23 pm
I do not get it.
Who is this deterring from making stupid unethical political plans on the phone?
Zagel seems angry.
I do not feel anger equals justice.
I can hope Zagel will find it in his heart to retire tomorrow.
Zagel has turned out to be a showboat … just like Rod.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:23 pm
I voted no but completely understand Zagel’s point of view. I’d have reduced minimally, a year or 18 months, to send the message that good behavior is rewarded. Blago can’t be fully repentant, but in this case, salvation through good works may be the best we can achieve.
Comment by Joe Cannon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:24 pm
Given the lowered number of convictions, I would have lowered the sentence by a few years to reflect that. Not moving it at all seems a bit harsh to me, even though it’s within his discretion.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:26 pm
Anonymous is me gg.
Comment by gg Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:27 pm
==Even if it never got further than “a thought exercise” the sale of a US Senate seat should not even get that far along in the process.
If you violate the public trust that badly in such a position of responsibility, you forfeit the right to mercy.===
Are you a robot or are you a human? Stop acting so mechanical and get a heart and show some mercy.
Comment by Anon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:28 pm
Disagreed because original sentence was too harsh, though Blago did not help himself. Had Blago stated, “I was corrupt and deserved to be convicted,” sentence might have been different. Once again, Blago’s arrogance cost him.
Comment by illinoised Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:28 pm
@Anon - What does race have ANYTHING to do with this? Blago has not offered an apology to those who voted him in twice.
Comment by Bogey Golfer Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:28 pm
Agree. The appellate court characterized the evidence against him as “overwhelming” and said that any trial errors worked to his benefit. They also concluded that the original sentence was reasonable even with the dismissed counts. In short he’s been treated fairly.
Comment by pundent Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:28 pm
===It wasn’t a parole hearing to hear about all the great stuff he has done in prison.===
This.
Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:29 pm
Zagel was never going to give into the fact his jury instructions were wrong and also 5 charges dropped. This is classic reason for initiating term limits on federal judges. They have nobody making sure they preform there job properly. And please don’t say the appellate court . The appellate court sent it back for resentencing and Zagel basically said nah I don’t agree. Of course in spite of what higher court ruled Easterbrook still gave Zagel what he needed to deny a reduction. To say the least a classic Easterbrook move as we saw in the article here 2 weeks ago concerning George Ryan.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:30 pm
I’ll agree. Blagojevich believes his good behavior in prison cancels out the “mistakes” he made. He seems to think his public behavior during the trial and his fight for justice caused the 14 year sentence, not the crimes which he still refuses to acknowledge. He regrets the suffering of his family, but says nothing about the harm done to the people of Illinois, unless I missed something. I don’t see any change in personality; he still believes proper messaging will benefit him, not true remorse.
Comment by Wensicia Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:30 pm
I agree with the judge.
What has always bothered me about this is the way he is portrayed in the media. Again, on the news this morning, its video of him shaking hands and smiling.
Why not just his prison mugshot (which is public record, by the way)?
Comment by Doug Simpson Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:30 pm
After that performance, the judge should have tacked on another couple of years.
Comment by Cheryl44 Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:31 pm
Am I surprised? No. Zagel’s original sentence really wasn’t about Blago cutting a deal for Obama’s seat, so I never though he’d reduce it.
That said, Blago will serve a prison term longer than what many convicted murderers receive, so it doesn’t seem as if the punishment fit the crime.
Maybe if he more forcefully admitted wrongdoing, Zagel would have admitted his original sentence was too harsh? Ironically, Blago’s “logrolling” expertise did not extend to the courtroom!
Comment by Sox fan Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:32 pm
=I’d have reduced minimally, a year or 18 months, to send the message that good behavior is rewarded.= The federal system already does this. If Blago continues to be an exemplary prisoner his sentence will be shortened. As many others have said he should have focused more on the conduct that landed him in prison as opposed to being a “model prisoner”.
Comment by pundent Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:32 pm
Rich,
I understand your point. However, there are no parole hearings in the federal system. Barring a commutation Rod is going to end up doing 12 years in Club Fed.
Does he deserve that? Probably.
Then again if we all got what we deserved life would be very unpleasant.
Has anyone even considered the amount of sales tax we’re losing by him not being able to buy hair dye locally?
FREE ROD!
Comment by IrishPirate Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:33 pm
average sentence for a convicted rapist is 8-9 years. Just food for thought
Comment by chi girl Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:34 pm
I think Zagel took note of several inmate letters referencing Rod’s belief that justice will prevail and not to be angry. Those two points alone show Rod still blames others and thinks he did nothing wrong.
Comment by old pol Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:34 pm
“- Anon - Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:20 pm:”
Your comment is inappropriate. This has nothing to do with race.
Also, I am white and wanted it reduced.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:34 pm
===
Are you a robot or are you a human? Stop acting so mechanical and get a heart and show some mercy. ===
I choose to hold authority figures to a higher standard. Especially since, at the end of the day, in our system they volunteered to take the job.
It’s only 14 years, total, in a low security federal prison. That’s not exactly harsh considering the level of the offense against the public trust and the Blagojevich’s health. He’ll live to see “freedom”.
As for his family, Blagojevich simply returned to a favorite tactic of his, which was to trot his family out in order to deflect negative press and attention whenever he did something to warrant criticism. They have been used as human shields so often that I am unmoved by their deployment now. If they were that important to him, he shouldn’t have run for Governor.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:35 pm
@Bogey Golfer it has a lot to do with it. As those that usually favor long jail sentences always seem to be white. Nobody is dead and no one was harmed. 14 years is way too harsh and he accepted responsibilty for his crime. The fact that you need to hear sorry before you show any mercy only proves u are more evil than merciful.
Comment by Anon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:37 pm
It seems so personal with Zagel. Obviously, it didn’t matter what Rod said, the judge already knew what he was going to do. Admission of guilt or not. Lastly, logic would say that if charges were thrown out (regardless if they were the crucial ones or not) then the sentence should have been reduced. Again, it’s personal, not professional.
Comment by does it matter Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:37 pm
Agreeing with Keyrock on this one and I personally think buried in Zagel’s ruling is the concept that “You saw what happened to Ryan and you went and did it ANYWAY!” NOT sure that Rod has actually learned a single thing. And Rich is right - this was not a parole hearing.
Comment by Galena Guy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:37 pm
5 counts were taken off… Shouldn’t that result in a reduction of sentencing? I think it should.
Comment by The Muse Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:37 pm
Smitty
GR was not charged with any crime relating to the crash involving the Willis family, had he been charged and convicted, the sentence would have been far greater.
Comment by Plutocrat03 Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:39 pm
The great irony of public policy is that in trying to help people, the unintended consequences often make things worse. In trying to send a message, the US Attorney’s Office, Appellate Court, and Zagel have told a generation of current and future office holders that fundraising violations and a perjury trap question from the FBI will get your 14 years and a destroyed life. My prediction…many good, honest people will make the rationale decision and avoid public life. A terrible day for everyone.
Comment by Former Legislative Aide Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:40 pm
Disagree with decision. I am with chigirl. Rapists get a shorter sentence.
Comment by illinifan Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:42 pm
I feel for his family and for him. This sentence was outrageous at the beginning and is more outrageous that it was upheld. The punishment far exceeds the crime. Love him or hate him, you can’t justify this sentence. Have some mercy, Judge.
Comment by Awful Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:42 pm
Should have been reduced to George Ryan’s sentence. People died as a result of the culture of corruption in Ryan’s office and cash was paid to Ryan for official favors.
Blago is the world’s biggest goof and probably has a personality disorder–but he got no money and nobody died. He’s clearly a criminal and deserved a stiff sentence, but keeping him away from his kids for 14 years is cruel to the family.
Comment by Court Watcher Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:43 pm
I do not question judicial rulings often, but this seemed to be more about making an example of someone and less about the crimes. Even so, he was convicted on the totality of charges, several of which were later tossed.
Comment by Downstate GOP Faithless Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:47 pm
The only adjustment that should have been made was to give Patti 24 months.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:49 pm
Thats if a rapist even gets convicted.
Comment by Doug Simpson Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:51 pm
I don’t have much sympathy with Blago about the convictions. I read many of the court documents at the time, and thought it was clear that he committed crimes. I also felt that the original sentence was too long. Ryan got 6 years, and Blago got 14? There’s no consistency. The defense today cited AL gov Don Sielgelman as comparable, and he got 7 years for similar charges.
After the appellate decision, I definitely thought Zagel would cut at least a couple of years off. He must really hate Blago. This isn’t about the letters of support, how badly his family is hurting, or how repentant he is. It’s about what the appropriate sentence should be, and this isn’t it.
Comment by Don't Worry, Be Happy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:52 pm
Illinois politicians need to know that dishonesty costs big time.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:55 pm
I believe that we can’t punish him enough.
Comment by VanillaMan Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:56 pm
Sentence was to long to start with. Most people think that you get day for day good time but that is not the case in federal prison. He will do 12 years so 8 left. Mean while they are commuting federal drug crimes to time served.
Comment by Nieva Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:58 pm
His lawyers are currently telling reporters that he was unjustly convicted. http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-live-stream-wgn-html-htmlstory.html
No remorse. Nothing. I’m usually for forgiveness and compassion. Not this time.
Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:02 pm
Lack of remorse. Notice that he apologized for “mistakes” rather than crimes. He doesn’t get it yet.
Comment by Stones Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:04 pm
I find it hard to square this — at all — with the Supreme Court McDonnell decision. Feels to me like local bias against an admittedly venal defendant.
Comment by vibes Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:07 pm
Remorse. If that’s what this thing turns on, then just sentence him to the death penalty. It doesn’t.
I despise even considering defending this guy, he was as guilty as you can be.
But, in the relevancy of sentencing; this is/was excessive. 5 extra years for being a jerk. It really is a testament to how much anguish and hate this guy inspired in the people around him. None of it has thawed even a little. That says something pretty amazing about Rod…and the rest of us.
Comment by A guy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:10 pm
Agree. Rod did a lot of damage to this state for which we will be paying for a long time. He committed the crime and he can do the time.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:10 pm
And….it was NOT a parole hearing, but it was handled that way by his attorney and him.
Yet… why were we here? Because 5 counts got tossed. That says something too.
Comment by A guy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:12 pm
Plutocrat03
There were other deaths, and the prosecutors proved when Fawell gave orders to impede investigations, Ryan was there and said nothing.
Comment by Smitty Irving Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:14 pm
Wrong decision by the judge but not surprising. The federal criminal justice is very harsh and slanted enormously toward the prosecution, in both law and attitude.
Comment by Quiet Sage Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:15 pm
These crooked pols just don’t get it.
Didn’t Ryan ask for a parole to be with his wife when she was ill, then he got furious when someone let the cat out of the bag that they let him out on “leave” to be with her a few times?
BTW, how come Patti and the kids didn’t move to Colorado to be able to visit him more often? I heard Patti just visited him five times over the last year. That’s really not a lot…
Comment by Illinois Bob Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:16 pm
Public servant abused his powerful office, cheated taxpayers, and made a mockery of himself time and time again. Blago still doesn’t get it because he is incapable of self reflection. Judge Zagel got it right.
People wanting to compare this to rapists, murderers, Geo. Ryan case, etc. miss the point that each judicial case is different and one can’t reasonably weigh Blago’s specific crimes against other crimes/other victims and different circumstances.
Comment by Responsa Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:17 pm
Wouldn’t it be great if every prisoner serving a long sentence got the chance for a judge to determine whether in light of present circumstances, the original sentence still serves justice?
That’s what the law ought to be, so we can bring to a close our era of mass incarceration.
Comment by Dan Johnson Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:17 pm
I personally like Sam Adam but his comments were way over the top. I reiterate, Rod could have shaved some time off with a little more remorse. He’s still his own worst enemy.
Comment by Stones Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:20 pm
The judge’s decision is symbolic of what was wrong with Blago: No compromise all the way to the end. Jeez, show a little remorse already!
Comment by Sox fan Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:25 pm
Disagree, that thing was an “expletive” goldmine. Who wouldn’t have thought to sell it?
Comment by Walmart Manager Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:29 pm
No Blagojevich, no Quinn.
No Quinn, no Rauner.
Blago should stay in prison.
– MrJM
Comment by @MisterJayEm Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:32 pm
Blago still cannot admit he was very, very wrong. Too bad for him and his family.
I do think the original sentence was too long. But, today was about expressing contrition and Blago doesn’t get it.
Comment by Belle Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:33 pm
Agree with judge. Blago was,is and always will be arrogant to the end. Take responsibility,say your sorry and say you have learned to be a better person.
Comment by pool boy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:40 pm
I waited and read and wanted to be thoughtful in my comment and vote.
Voted “Agree”
“Why?”
Rod’s lawyers, a lack of self-examination, and just a lack of grasping why GHR got less, and why Rod got more.
Nothing changed.
Even getting less but more than GHR…
Nope. Rod blew that too.
Agree. Zagel got this right. Tragic for his daughters, but it’s still the right thing
Voted “Agree”
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:42 pm
Maaaaaaaan,
some of you folks better hope that if you get indicted for trying to sell a Senate seat the commentators here don’t reflect the feelings of the sentencing judge.
Comment by IrishPirate Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:43 pm
I could accept Blagojevich serving a decade.
Has any other elected official served a longer term for misconduct?
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:44 pm
If the original sentence took into account the totality of guilty findings, then the appellate court removing five of them should have caused a reasonable reduction. I hope the Judge wasn’t using this as an opportunity to express his disagreement with the higher court.
Comment by walker Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:45 pm
I really don’t know how you can void several of the original charges and not reduce the sentence. However, I also believe that justice in life often works in a subtle way to punish those who wrong others. Blago was sentenced to 14 years. Maybe that was too heavy for what he was convicted of, but not enough for all the wrongs he did others but was not formally charged for.
Comment by one of the 35 Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 1:45 pm
One of 35 - So it’s OK if you were disciplined for”wrongs” you did but never formally charged with?
Comment by Original Rambller Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:00 pm
In the evidence presented to the court, he doesn’t express any remorse or accept any responsibility for what he did. I however, as a taxpayer, do not think that he is a threat to society. Therefore, revoke his law license, prevent him from talking to the media or from being on TV reality shows, and set him free. I don’t feel like paying for his stay in prison.
Comment by Non-Profit Executive Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:03 pm
Somehow, I quit caring. Blago in, Blago out. Don’t care. The real question I have is, when he does get out, what hilariously poor yet entertaining shtick will he be performing to make a buck?
Comment by Ducky LaMoore Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:03 pm
Littleton is a correctional facility, not a country club but a fairly decent one, it’s no Pontiac for sure. Eight more years is tolerable. My advice to Rod is the old prison cliche “don’t make your time any harder than it is”, something he doesn’t seem to get if the goal is to shorten it.
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:04 pm
No fan of Blago, but Zagel should tell the truth. Blago’s arrogance that got him 14 years. One question to Zagel, what happens when the “G” lies to you?
Comment by 126 RETIRED Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:06 pm
Couldn’t we fashion a punishment that would satisfy the lust for revenge, yet save taxpayers some dollars?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantalus
Let’s put Blago in a room where hair dye and hairspray are just out of his reach for say 6 months.
Then give him a ladder which he can use to reach the hair products only to find the cans are empty.
After a period of wailing and crying, which will be televised live on PBS, Donald Trump will walk in with hair products and proclaim “You’re Free”!
Cue heartwarming reunion of Blago and hair products. Then later reunion with his family.
Comment by IrishPirate Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:07 pm
===Has any other elected official served a longer term for misconduct? ===
Kwame Kilpatrick’s doing 28 years with the Feds.
Comment by Graduated College Student Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:07 pm
Didn’t accept responsibility and should have been sentenced for more, given the damage he did to this state.
Comment by anonymous retiree Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:08 pm
Judge karma got it right. No one should receive a reduced sentence unless there is a compelling reason.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:12 pm
Does everyone who demand that Blago accept responsibility for his crimes, or apologize for them, also want George Ryan to do the same? Because he hasn’t either, and he got a much, much more lenient sentence, despite the fact that his crookedness resulted in the deaths of six children.
Comment by Nick Name Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:13 pm
“No one should receive a reduced sentence unless there is a compelling reason.”
Such as reduction in charges.
Comment by does it matter Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:17 pm
===The great irony of public policy is that in trying to help people, the unintended consequences often make things worse. In trying to send a message, the US Attorney’s Office, Appellate Court, and Zagel have told a generation of current and future office holders that fundraising violations and a perjury trap question from the FBI will get your 14 years and a destroyed life. My prediction…many good, honest people will make the rationale decision and avoid public life. A terrible day for everyone. ===
Many truly good and honest people wouldn’t do much of what Rod did to land himself in hot water with the feds in the first place. And “fundraising violations” kind of really downplays the scale of Blagojevich’s venality and corruption. It was beyond the pale.
Also to further hit on my strong outrage with the idea that a governor should even think for a moment of selling a Senate seat-some of you are forgetting just how much power a single US Senator can wield in the legislative process and the electoral advantages of incumbency-the Senate rules are such that just one Senator can bring the entire legislative process to a grinding halt. You can put an end to the confirmation of any nominee for office. That is power and responsibility, and Blagojevich’s first thought was not “how do I responsibly make use of this irreversible decision” but “how can I use this opportunity to best benefit me?” That thought of defrauding the state’s citizenry and his many other crimes against 12.5 million Illinoisans, merits at least 14 years in a low security federal penitentiary.
The fact that he still seems to think his biggest offense was getting caught merits the continuation of the original sentence.
Comment by Graduated College Student Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:19 pm
Ryan got 6. That would have been reasonable for Blago as well. There’s justice and then there’s revenge — our system is supposed to be based on the first and not the second.
Comment by Not quite a majority Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:20 pm
===Ryan got 6. That would have been reasonable for Blago as well. There’s justice and then there’s revenge — our system is supposed to be based on the first and not the second.===
The justice system’s also about deterrence.
Ryan didn’t operate nearly on the scale Blagojevich did and, as Zagel noted, Blagojevich clearly didn’t take the hint from what happened to Ryan. Hence the longer sentence.
Blagojevich’s successors though, at least when it comes to THAT variety of corruption, have now taken the hint. So deterrence appears to be working now.
Comment by Graduated College Student Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:32 pm
I know someone who clerked for Judge Zagel. He is like most other judges–no remorse, not admitting you are guilty will not reduce your sentence. Absolutely the right result.
Comment by 32nd Ward Roscoe Village Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:39 pm
I might have taken a small amount of time off, like 18 months, maybe…
Again, tho, blame claims he did nothing wrong.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:44 pm
Agree. His original sentence could’ve been longer. He used his office for personal gain. No remorse.
And for those who say rape, murder, etc
get lower sentences, those crimes usually involve one victim. What about 12
5 million victims?
Comment by Sir Reel Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:44 pm
While I don’t feel bad for Blago at all, 14 years is kind of harsh for a non violent crime. Then again, don’t care, he can stay in prison.
Comment by Clark Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:45 pm
rape and murder victims, victims of a horrific crash, not the same kind of victims as the public and corruption like in this case. just not the same. victims of physical crimes deserve deeper justice. the pain in incalculable.
Comment by Amalia Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:47 pm
Voted disagree. Rod was a terrible Governor and he’s a pretty bad guy, but I felt that the sentence was disproportionately high when originally imposed and feel that is even more the case after several of the charges were thrown out. I think Judge Zagel was predisposed toward a harsh sentence and Blago’s arrogance did him no favors.
Comment by SAP Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:50 pm
I disregarded compassion and remorse arguments and focused on the 5 dropped charges. If Zagel did not give those 5 convictions any weight when he imposed the original sentence, then he was logically free to impose the same sentence. HOWEVER if Zagel did give those convictions some weight at original sentencing and they have now been removed, he is obligated to reduce the sentence by whatever weight he gave them. Unless there is something in the record at original sentencing about this, only Zagel knows the answer to this. (My guess is he did give them some weight but didn’t reduce sentence just to jam Rod.)
Comment by Original Rambller Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:58 pm
–Smitty Irving - Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 12:18 pm:
Disagree. George Ryan;
Bad comparison. George got time for actions he did not commit. Those that sold license’s to unqualified people cut plea deals to save their own butts. To say he had anything to do with the truck part falling off and catching that van on fire van is ludicrous. Ryan was railroaded. Blago held state funds up for his own benefit and did or attempted to other garbage. That’s what got him where he is.
Comment by the Cardinal Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 2:59 pm
Is wont be popular and I never did like Blago but from a purely legal standpoint if that high of a percentage of charges were dropped, the sentence should be adjusted accordingly. If it were t Blago, chances are they would have been. Zagel never tried to hide his contempt for Blago’s actions during the original sentencing. Just sayin’
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 3:20 pm
It appears the former Governor still believes he did not commit a crime. Whatever we think, the courts say that he did. This is why Zagel would not budge.
Comment by phocion Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 3:26 pm
Has Zagel ever ruled one in favor of Blago? There should have been another judge to give Blago a fair hearing.
Comment by Winnin' Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 3:41 pm
There was mercy. The sentence was 14 years with credit for time served. The judge could have sentenced blago to 14 years with no credit for time served.
Comment by Huh? Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 4:44 pm
No ‘I’m sorry’ and heavy evidence. Blago still trying to smooze his way through. Too bad.
Comment by zatoichi Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 4:53 pm
I never cared for Blagojevich and was glad he was removed from office. I’ve always thought 14 years was too harsh for a non-violent crime. Maybe 10 topa would have been good.
But also he doesn’t seem to understand how to play the game. At least say you’re sorry Rod, if you want to be with your family sooner.
He never did seem that bright.
Comment by Joe Biden Was Here Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 5:15 pm
I agree with the judge’s decision and would have shocked if he’d reduced the sentence by as much as two years.
After reading the description of Blago’s reaction, and the comments by his brother, his spouse and his attorney, I’m convinced they still think they’re residing in cloud cuckoo land.
Pardon me while I dig out my CD of Linda Ronstadt singing “Poor, Pitiful Me.”
Comment by Curmudgeon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 5:59 pm
Oops! I would have BEEN shocked …
Comment by Curmudgeon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 6:00 pm
Yea Judge Zagel !!!!
Comment by Ex-State employee Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 6:14 pm
What a piece of work former Illinois State Police Director, and current federal Judge Zagel turns out to be….He gives his Thompson Era buddies, who made millions from questionable contracts with state government next to nothing prison time for their roles and sends the poor goof Blagojevich away for 14 years… Zagel’s Thompson buddies make millions off play-to-play during Zagel’s service as Director of ISP , but it’s Blagojevich that serves 14 years without ripping a dime from taxpayers.
I am not a believer, but i hope there is a hot place in hell waiting for Judge Zagel.
Comment by Bill Edley Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 6:14 pm
It simply seems to perpetuate B’s effort to seek his own personal advantage, for him to keep trying to reduce his sentence. If he took deeper responsibility for his actions while a public servant, he would focus on doing good and wrestling with his inner life while serving his time.
Comment by Yooper in Diaspora Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 6:29 pm
Interesting history Edley. Care to name some names of the Thompson buddies who got off easy??
Comment by DuPage Dave Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 6:41 pm
Dupage Dave…or however you are…Google it or pay attention for the last 30 years as I have done.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 7:33 pm
This
“Ryan didn’t operate nearly on the scale Blagojevich did and, as Zagel noted, Blagojevich clearly didn’t take the hint from what happened to Ryan. Hence the longer sentence.”
Comment by Leave a Light on George Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 7:56 pm
While everyone is weepy eyed over the fate of the convicted governor, remember that he withheld funding to the Children’s Hospital until money went to one of his accounts. That alone justifies keeping the he sentence where it is.
Comment by Plutocrat03 Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 8:06 pm
A reduction of a few years would be wise to reflect the fact that five counts were dropped. Maybe not legally required, but the system should be seen to be fair.
Never voted for him, but the ethical questions Illinois makes you face… Is his crude self-enrichment worse than our present wholesale destruction of state infrastructure, especially services for those in need ?
Comment by peon Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 8:19 pm
Concurrent service, people. If you’re convicted on 100 counts and sentenced to serve concurrently, then 99 of thr counts can be tossed without requiring a reduction in your sentence. Rod got off easy with 14 years. That’s still an appropriate sentence.
Comment by A worker Tuesday, Aug 9, 16 @ 8:51 pm
A vilified Blago is useful to both parties. Republicans want him as the poster boy for Democrats. Democrats use him as their scapegoat: now that he’s been sent away, they’ve changed their ways.
A skillful Chicago pol can reap millions for his real or perceived influence. A high-profile, bumbling braggadocio like Blago gets what he got, with a few extra years thrown in for happening to be in the chair when the Great Recession arrived.
There seems to be an underlying fear of Blago — an idea that if he comes back he will once again mesmerize us. Which says something about confidence in democracy. He is, though, something of a Music Man.
Kudos to A guy for his comments.
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Aug 10, 16 @ 6:53 am
Edley is spot on about Zagel. to forget his history with his Thompson era buddies is a huge mistake. that is the lens through which to view him.
Comment by Amalia Wednesday, Aug 10, 16 @ 9:45 am
It seems that quid pro quo corruption is whatever the judge wants it to be for his or her own convenience. Conservatives on the Supreme Court narrow it for their own convenience. Zagel broadens it for his own convenience. Karl Rove’s allies in Alabama broadened it for their own convenience with someone who is far more of a victim than Blago, Don Siegelman. There’s no clear definition and deliberately no attempt at achieving a clear definition. And thus confidence in our legal system is compromised whenever this topic comes up. In Blago’s case, the sentence is excessive, though not as much so as some might think.
Comment by Angry Chicagoan Thursday, Aug 11, 16 @ 7:09 am