US: 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 prison yesterday for fraud in the purchase of a Florida casino cruise line.
Abramoff, who is co-operating in a federal investigation into whether Washington politicians gave his clients favourable 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.
"I am much chastened and profoundly remorseful," Abramoff told the Miami court in a brief statement.
Co-defendant Adam Kidan was also sentenced to five years and 10 months in prison.
Abramoff pleaded guilty in a Miami federal court in January to conspiracy and wire fraud charges, acknowledging he faked documents to get a $60 million loan to buy the SunCruz fleet of gambling ships in 2000.
Federal investigators are examining his links to a number of politicians, including former House Majority leader Tom DeLay and Republican Rep Bob Ney. Mr DeLay and Mr Ney deny any wrongdoing.