Former Illinois Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. plead guilty in federal court to criminal charges that he engaged in a scheme to spend $750,000 in campaign funds on personal items. He faces 46 to 57 months in prison and a fine between $10,000 and $100,000, under a plea deal with prosecutors.
Jackson held back tears while entering his plea on Wednesday. His wife, Sandra, also pleaded guilty to filing false joint federal income tax returns.
“I’ve never been more clear in my life,†Jackson told the judge before pleading guilty. “For years I lived in my campaign,†he said, admitting to using money from the campaign for personal use.
Jackson’s father, civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson was also in attendance, sitting in the front row.
Since last June, Jackson has been treated for bipolar disorder and other issues, staying out the public eye for months.