Related To Story RANDY 'DUKE' CUNNINGHAM
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Cunningham Learns His Fate
Cunningham Spared Maximum Sentence Of 10 Years
UPDATED: 5:05 pm PST March 3,
2006
SAN DIEGO -- Disgraced former congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham was sentenced Friday to eight years and four months in federal prison for accepting $2.4 million in bribes in return for influencing defense contracts. U.S. District Judge Larry Burns also ordered Cunningham, 64, to pay almost $2 million restitution in back taxes. Burns said the eight-term congressman experienced 59 years of "pretty good living" before betraying the public trust. But he declined to impose the maximum 10-year term that prosecutors had sought, saying Cunningham's service to his country during two tours of duty as an ace fighter pilot warranted a reduction in the maximum sentence. "I credit that service," the judge said. "I think the country owes you a debt for that." Before he was sentenced, a tearful Cunningham apologized for his actions. "No man has ever been more sorry. I accept responsibility," he said. He also said that he hoped to see his 91-year-old mother one last time before going to jail. However, Cunningham was immediately taken into custody and will be evaluated by Bureau of Prison doctors before he is sent to a facility for confinement next Friday. Burns recommended he be sent to Taft prison near Bakersfield, Calif. Defense attorneys urged the judge to sentence Cunningham to six years in prison.
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