OK - #Hezbollah aid sentencing of Ali Kourani by #SDNY Judge Hellerstein has belatedly begun. AUSA Bove says 20 year maximum (only only some of 7 counts) applies - thread
Judge Hellerstein says he admits he hasn't much researched whether 15 or 20 year maximum applies to Counts 1 and 2 - or Counts 6 and 7. AUSA Bove questions why this is being raised now. Others might postpone this sentencing...
Judge Hellerstein announces he has already signed an order canceling Kourani's US naturalization. Kourani says he hasn't read US sentencing memo until today. His lawyer confirms. Postpone?
Kourani, before Judge Hellerstein sentences him, concludes, "You are sending the wrong message to the Lebanese people."
Judge H: It's not my job to send messages, it's to find a just punishment.
AUSA Bove: He praised #Hezbollah.
Judge H: I heard what you heard.
Judge H: It's not my job to send messages, it's to find a just punishment.
AUSA Bove: He praised #Hezbollah.
Judge H: I heard what you heard.
SENTENCE: For aiding #Hezbollah, Ali Kourani has just been sentenced to forty (40) years in prison by #SDNY Judge Hellerstein.
Then deportation to #Lebanon. @SDNYLIVE Story soon.
Then deportation to #Lebanon. @SDNYLIVE Story soon.
Judge Hellerstein says when Kourani gets out, no need for mental health treatment.
Kourani wants placement near Canadian border, to see his kids.
Judge Hellerstein declines.
Kourani will file appeal.
Kourani wants placement near Canadian border, to see his kids.
Judge Hellerstein declines.
Kourani will file appeal.
Inner City Press spoke with Kourani's lawyer afterward, asking about the grounds for appeal. Running to write and publish story now- before covering another case : )
