Black Steals Green, Learns White Collar Crime Doesn't Pay

After a four-month trial in Chicago, mogul (and remorseless SOB to many) Conrad Black was sentenced today to 6 1/2 years in prison for fraud after cheating Hollinger media shareholders out of $6M. Prosecutors had wanted him held responsible for $32M in shareholder losses and sentenced to up to 30 years. But the presiding District Court judge held otherwise, resulting in the much shorter sentence. The 63-year-old was acquitted on nine other charges against him, but in addition to fraud, was convicted for obstruction of justice for removing documents from his offices. Black has been out on a $21M bond, staying at his Palm Beach estate. He must report to prison by March 3rd. A new form of March madness will be had! Party at my place!!