Government objects to 'bare bones' motion to delay former Rep. Corrine Brown's sentencing

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — After former Northeast Florida Democratic Rep. Corrine Brown asked a judge to delay her sentencing hearing because of loss she suffered during Hurricane Irma, the U.S. Attorney's Office has objected to the request.

In the government’s response, prosecutors say Brown’s motion for a continuance was “bare bones” and didn’t explain how losing “personal papers and effects” in Irma impact her ability to prepare for sentencing.

The government also said Brown should be treated the same as any other defendant who was affected by Irma, and that they're not aware of any other pending criminal cases in this division that have had a delay, this far out from the storm. The sentencing was set in August when Brown was denied motions for an acquittal and for a new trial.

Brown has met with her probation officer since the hurricane to provide information for a Pre-Sentence Report, according to the government. Prosecutors say completing the meeting shows Brown is, in fact, capable of preparing for her sentencing hearing.

Brown's motion for a continuance said she lost "personal papers and effects" because of Irma, and that FEMA recently told her her home was uninhabitable. The response from the government said Brown's defense still maintains access to all available court records through the court's online system.

The sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for Nov. 16, but the defense is asking for another four months. Brown’s co-defendants, her Chief of Staff Ronnie Simmons and the President of “One Door For Education” Carla Wiley, face sentencing November 15.

Brown was convicted in May of 18 fraud-related charges for soliciting hundreds of thousands of dollars for "One Door for Education"-- which was found to be a sham charity -- and using the money for personal expenses and lavish events instead. She also failed to report income from One Door on financial disclosures and tax forms, while overreporting charitable donations. Brown said she was negligent in managing her personal finances and affairs but did not knowingly engage in corruption.

Brown has remained out on bond, pending her sentencing hearing. Simmons and Wiley both pleaded guilty and testified against Brown during her trial. They have remained out on bond as well, pending their sentencings.

Cox Media Group