Hastert Greeted By Mob Of Reporters At Arraignment In Chicago

Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert arrived at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago today to a throng of reporters, hoping to catch a glimpse of, if not a brief word with, the latest in a long line of prominent Illinois politicians to face an indictment for federal criminal charges. Hastert ignored reporters' questions as he appeared with his attorney for a perfunctory initial hearing on charges he sought to evade federal currency reporting requirements and lied to federal agents about the purpose of those withdrawals--namely to pay hush money to an alleged sexual abuse victim dating back decades ago when Hastert worked as a teacher and wrestling coach at Yorkville High School before entering politics. Hastert entered a not guilty plea to the two charges. Notably, his wife of more than four decades didn't accompany him to court today. Hastert is represented by Thomas Green, a white-collar criminal defense attorney with the law firm of Sidley & Austin.