dukeofURL (@dukeofURL)

Will John Bolton spend time in prison? John Bolton, the former National Security Adviser, the honest answer is: it's possible, but far from certain. According to multiple reports published today, Bolton has agreed to plead guilty to one count involving the retention of classified information as part of a plea agreement. The reported deal includes a $2.25 million fine and a sentencing range that could be anywhere from no prison time up to five years, with the final decision left to the judge. (Reuters) Several factors could influence whether he actually serves time: Plea agreements often reduce sentencing exposure compared with going to trial and being convicted on multiple counts. Bolton is a 77-year-old first-time offender with a long public-service career, factors that judges sometimes consider during sentencing. Prosecutors may argue that the alleged mishandling involved highly sensitive national-security information, which could support a custodial sentence. The judge is not required to follow any recommendation from either side. (Reuters) So, at this point, no one can say definitively whether Bolton will go to prison. The plea agreement appears to leave open both possibilities: a sentence with no incarceration or a prison term of up to five years. The sentencing outcome will likely become clearer after his scheduled court appearance later this month.