A federal judge in Chicago is refusing to delay sentencing for ex-Illinois Rep. Keith Farnham on a child pornography conviction despite an illness that soon could take his life.
Judge Edmond Chang says in an order filed Friday that the Democrat seems "physically capable" of attending the hearing. He adds there are "victim interests at stake" in sticking to the March 19 sentencing date.
Farnham's been under house arrest. He pleaded guilty to transporting child pornography and faces a maximum 20-year prison term.
Defense lawyers asked for the delay, citing Farnham's pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that damages lung tissue. They say he likely has less than six months to live.
Prosecutors opposed a delay. They said one victim who "made allegations against defendant personally" intended to speak at Farnham's sentencing.
Judge won't delay sentencing for ex-Illinois Rep. Farnham
