Judge denies ex-speaker’s bid to relax home confinement
Boston (AP) — The federal judge who granted former Massachusetts House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi a compassionate early release from prison denied a request Friday to ease the terms of his home confinement.
DiMasi’s lawyers had asked U.S. District Court Judge Mark Wolf to modify the terms of his supervised release by replacing 24-hour home confinement with a 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew, which would allow the one-time Beacon Hill leader to move about more freely during the day.
In denying the motion, Wolf did authorize probation officers to allow DiMasi to participate in a twice-weekly “Live Strong” program for cancer survivors at a YMCA, and to leave home to exercise for up to two hours in a day. Previously, he was allowed to leave only for medical appointments and to attend church.
DiMasi was granted early release in November after serving five years of an eight-year sentence on federal corruption charges, including extortion. The Democrat was charged with using his clout as speaker to steer lucrative state contracts to a software company in exchange for $65,000 in payments funneled through DiMasi’s outside law firm.
While in prison, DiMasi was treated for tongue and prostate cancer. In arguing for compassionate release, his lawyers and family members said while his cancer was in remission, the illness had resulted in a narrowing of his esophagus that created a risk of choking and required he be constantly monitored while eating and drinking. Southeastern Connecticut Business Monthly is a great place to share your news about new hires; promotions; networking, community and professional events; professional development seminars; business-related forums; and local fundraisers. Questions? Call 860-701-4375.