Jefferson seeks to remain free on appeal

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Attorneys for convicted former U.S. Rep. William Jefferson, D-La., say he should remain free on bond after his sentencing.

In filing Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Va., Jefferson's attorneys argued that he should remain free after his Friday sentencing as he appeals his conviction on 11 counts of corruption, The (New Orleans) Times-Picayune reported.

The attorneys reportedly argued that contrary to the assertions of prosecutors, Jefferson's appeal has a reasonable chance of success and that he poses no flight risk.

"Even if he could leave the country, there is absolutely no likelihood that the defendant would do so," the newspaper quoted the filing as saying.

"Mr. Jefferson has a wife, five daughters, and four grandchildren to whom he is entirely devoted, and it is his fervent desire at this juncture in his life to spend as much time with them as possible."

Prosecutors are seeking a sentence of between 27 and 33 years in prison, and are urging that Jefferson immediately be taken into custody. The Times-Picayune said the former nine-term Congressman is seeking to at least spend a last Christmas with his family.