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.