Blagojevich gets 14 years in prison for corruption

CHICAGO (AP) — A federal judge has sentenced Rod Blagojevich to 14 years for corruption that included trying to sell or trade an appointment to the Senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama.

Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, right, departs his home with his wife Patti in Chicago, Wednesday, or the second day of his sentencing hearing on 18 corruption counts, including trying to to auction off President Barack Obama's old Senate seat.

It's one of the stiffest penalties for corruption in a state with a history of crooked politics.

Blagojevich apologized for his crimes and asked for mercy in addressing the judge earlier Wednesday.

His attorneys had said the sentence of 15 to 20 years prosecutors wanted was too harsh.

He is the second successive Illinois governor sentenced for corruption. His Republican predecessor, George Ryan, is serving a 6 1/2 year term.