29 March 2006

See you in six *


MIAMI (Reuters) - Jack Abramoff, a disgraced lobbyist
at the heart of a Washington influence-peddling scandal
that has rattled top Republicans, was sentenced to
nearly six years in prision
on Wednesday for fraud in the
purchase of a Florida casino cruise line.

Abramoff, who is cooperating in a federal investigation
into whether Washington politicians gave his clients
favorable treatment in exchange for campaign
contributions, Super Bowl tickets and other illegal gifts,
was also ordered to pay $21.7 million, together with a
co-defendant, in restitution.

* 5 years and 10 months to be precise.