Judge to set Wilkerson’s sentencing date

Judge to set Wilkerson’s sentencing date

Associated Press / November 29, 2010

A judge is expected to set a sentencing date this week for a former Massachusetts state senator who was convicted of attempted extortion after being captured on video stuffing bribe money into her sweater and bra. Boston Democrat Dianne Wilkerson was accused in 2008 of taking $23,500 in bribes. She pleaded guilty in June to eight counts of attempted extortion. Prosecutors said they plan to ask for a four-year sentence. Wilkerson’s lawyers have said they will ask for less than the three years and two months suggested as a minimum in federal sentencing guidelines. US District Judge Douglas Woodlock has scheduled a status conference in the case today, when he is expected to set a date for Wilkerson’s sentencing hearing.