CHICAGO (AP) -- A former Chicago grocer convicted of obstruction of justice for lying under oath about ties to Hamas has been sentenced to 21 months in prison.
Dozens of people, many in tears, came streaming out of a federal courtroom downtown this afternoon (wed) after a judge sentenced Muhammad Salah to 21 months in prison.
He's been found guilty of lying under oath in a lawsuit over the murder of a teenager in Israel by Hamas.
Salah cried - and hugged and shook hands with many supporters outside the courtroom after pleading for a sentence of probation - He later told reporters the sentence is unfair and he called the move political.
His defense attorney must now decide whether or not to appeal.
The prosecution had requested ten-years in prison -they declined comment afterward.
Prosecutors say Salah funneled money to Mideast terrorists....though he was acquitted of a more serious racketeering conspiracy charge by jurors.
His attorney pointed to the hundreds of letters that paint Salah as a teacher, mentor -a charitable, generous loving man - the glue of his community.
Prosecutors called Salah a liar, a criminal - In the end, Judge Amy St. Eve said she put extensive time into the case - was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for Salah - but she said obstruction of justice is a serious crime.
Salah must surrender October 11th.
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