This came about at a hearing in federal court in Chicago.
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An indictment that was handed down this May alleges that he agreed to pay the money to this individual and offered no details on the misconduct.
The Associated Press and other media, quoting unnamed sources, has informed that the payments were proposed to mask claims of sexual misconduct decades back.
“We’re being diligent about it”, prosecutor Steven Block said of the talks at a Monday hearing where he and the defense requested a delay in the proceedings.
Before entering politics, Hastert was a high school teacher and wrestling coach in Yorkville between 1965 and 1981.
The judge set an October 15 deadline for updates. From 2010-2014, Hastert paid $1.7 million to the person, avoiding bank reporting requirements in the process. He remains free on bond. It also avoids the stress and potential embarrassment of a trial.
One of Hastert’s attorneys, John Gallo, told the judge they have been discussing with federal prosecutors a possible resolution to the case short of a trial.
Plea deals are common in federal cases, where defendants seek lesser sentences in exchange for guilty pleas.
Green has also said the defense team will issue subpoenas seeking more information about Individual A, the mysterious figure who prosecutors say took cash from Hastert to keep quiet about a dark history with him.
A trial could reveal details of his alleged sexual abuse.
“The indictment has effectively been amended by leaks from the government”, Green said at a July hearing.
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“That’s the sword they have hanging over his head”, said Andrew Herman, a prominent Washington-based attorney who has represented clients targeted by ethics investigations in Congress. But they could have been raised in testimony regarding motive.
