Disgraced former Los Angeles City Councilman José Huizar has received a five-week continuance in the start of his 13-year prison term due to undisclosed medical reasons. The delay was granted by U.S. District Judge John F. Walter, allowing Huizar to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons no later than October 7. Huizar was convicted of accepting bribes from downtown developers and tax evasion.
Huizar, who represented Council District 14, pleaded guilty to felony charges in January 2023. Along with the prison term, he was ordered to pay restitution to the city of Los Angeles and the IRS. He admitted to operating a pay-to-play scheme, using his office for personal gain, and receiving over $1.5 million in bribes, gifts, and other benefits.
Members and associates of the scheme, including lobbyists and city officials, also pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigation. Huizar’s co-defendant, former Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan, was convicted of multiple federal counts related to the scheme and is set to be sentenced in October.
Huizar’s sentencing hearing was delayed multiple times due to medical reasons and confidential matters. The latest delay allows Huizar more time before surrendering to prison. The U.S. Attorney’s Office declined to comment on the situation. Huizar, who resigned in 2020, was known for his efforts to promote development in Los Angeles and now faces a lengthy prison term for his crimes.
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