Perzel Gets 30 to 60 Months for Corruption

Former Pa. House Speaker to spend at least 30 months behind bars in corruption case

Former Pennsylvania House Speaker John Perzel must spend 30 to 60 months in prison for his role in a scheme to use public resources for campaign purposes.

The 62-year-old Republican from Philadelphia also was ordered to pay $1 million in restitution.

Perzel sat stone-faced as Dauphin County Judge Richard Lewis handed down his sentence Wednesday.

Perzel was among seven Republican defendants who pleaded guilty in the case. Prosecutors say he masterminded a scheme to spend millions of dollars on computer technology and expertise to give GOP candidates an advantage in election campaigns.

Perzel had no comment as he left the courtroom. Defense attorney Brian McMonagle said he felt Lewis fully considered his client's good works and the impact of his crimes in handing down the sentence.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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