Dennis Hastert lawyers in talks for possible plea deal

But on Monday John Gallo, one of his attorneys, told U.S District Court Judge Thomas Durkin that his discussions with Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Block about a potential plea deal were “linear and productive”.

CHICAGO-Lawyers for former House Speaker Dennis Hastert are in talks with federal prosecutors to resolve pending criminal charges against him.

Hastert isn’t required to attend Monday’s hearing. Federal prosecutors allege he promised to pay $3.5 million to an unnamed individual from his hometown of Yorkville, Illinois, to hide past misconduct. AP and other media outlets reported that the payments were meant to cover up claims of sexual misconduct that happened years ago. U.S. District Judge Thomas Durkin called on the two sides to move along with their talks or set a trial date.

Authorities allege that Hastert structured cash withdrawals in increments of just under $10,000 in an attempt to avoid reporting rules, and when questioned by the FBI, said he was taking the money out because he didn’t trust banks.

The one-time teacher and wrestling coach has pleaded not guilty to violating banking laws and lying to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He’s free on bond.

Plea deals are common in federal cases, where defendants seek lesser sentences in exchange for guilty pleas. The judge made that announcement as both sides appeared in court Monday on an otherwise routine motion to extend filing deadlines in the case. It could also protect the identity of the alleged hush-money recipient, known only as “Individual A”.

The motion filed by his lawyers last week says prosecutors support the request.