Corrupt former NYPD commissioner Bernie Kerik will learn how much prison time he will get for his crimes when he is sentenced later today.
Judge Stephen Robinson will decide whether to accept the 27-33 month prison sentence Kerik and prosecutors agreed to under the plea deal. Kerik admitted to committing 8 felonies when he pleaded guilty back on November 5.
Prosecutors have said they want the 54 year-old Kerik sent straight to prison once the sentence is announced. In their sentencing papers, the feds called on the judge to send a strong message that corruption cannot be tolerated by those sworn to uphold the law. Kerik has admitted he accepted more than $250,000 in renovations to his home from a construction firm with alleged mafia ties. He has also admitted to lying on his application to the White House in an attempt to become Homeland Security Secretary under President George W. Bush.
Kerik's lawyer has asked for leniency, pointing out Kerik's career of service in law enforcement -- including running the NYPD during the 9-11 attacks. More than 30 letters asking for leniency were submitted on Kerik's behalf. Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who promoted Kerik to the city's highest law enforcement post, did not submit a letter to Judge Robinson.
Kerik has been on home confinement since his guilty plea in November. The federal courthouse is preparing for a crush of press and onlookers. An overflow room is being set up to accommodate the large crowd on hand to watch what is believed to be the first NYPD commissioner in history to be sent to prison.
Jonathan Dienst WNBC
