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Judge Tightens Hastert Parole

Prohibited from accessing pornography, sex chat lines and speaking to minors

Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., is pictured in a 1975 Yorkville, Ill., High School yearbook. (Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call file photo)
Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., is pictured in a 1975 Yorkville, Ill., High School yearbook. (Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call file photo)

Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert had his parole terms tightened to prohibit him from accessing pornography and speaking with minors.

U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Durkin added that Hastert was prevented “any pornographic, sexually oriented, or sexually stimulating materials, including visual, auditory, telephonic, or electronic media, computer programs, or services” according to USA Today.

Hastert was convicted in 2016 for a payout scheme he arranged to cover up sexual abuse committed while he was a high school wrestling coach.

Though he was sentenced to 15 months, he served only 13 and had two years of supervised release.

Hastert is also forbidden to use or possess a camera, computer or any device that has access to the internet without prior approval from his probation officer.

“You shall submit at any time, with or without a warrant, to a search of your person and any property, house, residence, vehicle, papers, computer, other electronic communication or data storage devices or media, and effects, by any law enforcement or probation officer having reasonable suspicion,” the order read.

Hastert served eight years as Speaker of the House. 

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