Published: June 22, 2009 01:24 pm      

Blago’s former fundraiser sentenced to 37 months

CHICAGO (AP) — A federal judge has sentenced ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s former chief fundraiser to 37 months in prison for hiding his use of company funds to pay gambling debts and other expenses from the Internal Revenue Service.

Roofing contractor Christopher Kelly was also ordered to pay more than $600,000 in restitution to the government.

The 50-year-old Kelly is the former chairman of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich campaign fund.

Before the sentencing, Kelly told Judge Elaine Bucklo he’s “deeply sorry” and embarrassed by his actions.

Kelly pleaded guilty in January. He admitted not only using company funds to pay a bookie and a casino but to buy and furnish a home.