Combating a defense argument from yesterday that sentencing corrupt politicians in Illinois up to now has not had a deterrebnt effect, Assistant U.S. Attorney Reid Schar told Judge Zagel that's because judges haven't been sentencing them to long enough terms.

"It goes to show that sentences have not been high enough so far," Schar said. "We should not throw in the towel. There is simply a need to increase punishment."

"A message must be sent to this defendant and others that the consequences are higher now than ever before," Schar said

"A sentence of between 15-20 years ins appropriate in this case," Schar said.

Zagel about to rule