DeLay sentenced to three years in prison in money-laundering case

Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) was sentenced Monday to three years in prison for his conviction on charges of conspiring to launder corporate money into a political campaign fund.

DeLay was convicted in November on state money-laundering charges based on a 2002 scheme to funnel money to seven Texas Republican state House candidates.

{mosads}Judge Pat Priest ruled that DeLay would also serve 10 years’ probation
for his conviction on charges of money laundering, according to the Austin
American-Statesman.

“I fought the fight. I ran the race. I kept the faith,” DeLay said.

The once-powerful Texan earned the nickname of “The Hammer” for his brusque style and tough tactics during his tenure as a member of the House leadership. 

The Justice Department dropped its investigation of DeLay in August, which centered on his ties to convicted GOP lobbyist Jack Abramoff. 

The Houston Chronicle reported Monday that former House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) testified on DeLay’s behalf at the sentencing hearing.

DeLay is expected to be released after he posts an appeal bond.