President Donald Trump commuted Johnny Doc John Dougherty’s six-year federal prison sentence, setting up an early release from federal prison. George Bochetto said Thursday evening that the commutation could let Dougherty leave as early as Thursday night.
George Bochetto on Cecilia
Bochetto said Dougherty’s wife, Cecilia, needs him at home. “Johnny Doc's wife Cecilia is in such desperate need of her husband to stand by her to care for her. Nobody knows her needs better. No one cares for her better than Johnny Doc,” he said.
Dougherty had been sentenced to six years in federal prison, with three years of supervision to follow. His lawyers had asked for a reduced sentence and said he provides daily care for Cecilia, who is gravely ill.
2019 and 2021 cases
The commutation cuts short a sentence tied to two criminal cases. In 2019, an indictment accused Dougherty of using the electricians' union as his personal bank account and as a source of jobs for family and friends. In 2021, he was convicted separately of bribing a Philadelphia City Council member.
Federal prosecutors sought a sentence of up to 14 years and $2.1 million in restitution to the union. They said his actions harmed both Local 98 and the City of Philadelphia.
Thursday night release
Bochetto said Dougherty could be released as early as Thursday night after beginning surrender to prison on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, when a U.S. district judge rejected a request to delay his reporting date. George Bochetto also said, “Let's not forget Johnny Dougherty was an icon of democratic politics in Pennsylvania and in Philadelphia. Donald Trump is a republican, so it really shows you politics can sometimes transcend when it is the right thing to do.”
The exact terms or conditions of the commutation were not provided. What remains in view is whether the release happens at once or after any further prison processing tied to the commutation order.
