Sarkozy Could Be Freed Just 20 Days Into Prison Sentence

A Paris court will decide on Monday whether to release former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, just 20 days after he was imprisoned, writes the Associated Press. Sarkozy was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of criminal conspiracy for allegedly financing his victorious 2007 election campaign with funds from Libya.

Sarkozy, 70, is the first former president of modern France to be sentenced to prison. He had previously been convicted on corruption charges but was required to wear an electronic ankle monitor to avoid imprisonment.

Sarkozy's lawyers have appealed the verdict and filed a motion for early release. The appeal process is scheduled for a later date, possibly in the spring. During Monday's hearing, Sarkozy will provide guarantees that he will comply with the parole requirements. If they are accepted, he will be under judicial supervision and could be released from Paris's La Santé prison within hours.