Jack's Back - Abramoff To Be Sentenced

Where's the frenzy?

Now that Abramoff has entered his guilty plea (DOJ Press Release) Jack Abramoff will be sentenced this week, Wednesday, March 29th, 2006, at 1:00 p.m. before The Honorable Paul Huck, United States District Court Judge for the Southern District of Florida. (Appointed by President Clinton, 1990.)

I mention that he was appointed by President Clinton for biographical purposes, but don't get any ideas. Huck is a by the book, down the middle, rules are rules, jurist.

Since there are no cameras in federal courtrooms, here's a snapshot of what will happen:

The 10th floor mahogany laden courtroom will be filled with Abramoff supporters, prosecutors Lawrence LaVechhio, Paul Schwartz, defense lawyers Neal Sonnett (know as the "dean of the Miami defense bar) and Abbe David Lowell of Washington fame.

The defense may again seek a continuance, which will be denied as quickly as it is requested.

Judge Huck will then discuss the Pre-sentence investigation Report and any objections filed by the defense. Judge Huck will try to resolve the objections and determine the "Guideline Range" pursuant to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Then we'll hear from Abramoff supporters, and Abramoff. Yes, this will be the first time we actually hear a statement from Abramoff. He will apologize, seek forgiveness, and a light sentence.

Look for Judge Huck to sentence Abramoff within the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, and make no long statements about Abramoff's conduct.

He will not take Abramoff immediately into custody, but require him to self-surrender when the Federal Bureau of Prisons designates him to a facility.

Then Abramoff will walk out of court, and say nothing.

Look for a post-sentence statement from Interim U.S Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, R. Alexander Acosta, who will most likely be at the sentencing.