John Edwards Suffering From 'Life-Threatening' Condition, Says Judge
Former presidential candidate John Edwards is suffering form a life-threatening condition, according to a North Carolina judge.
The news came out on Friday when U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles delayed the criminal corruption trial of the former politician until at least March 26, due to an overwhelming medical condition.
A court source told CNN that Edwards was suffering from a heart condition.
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Judge Eagles determined to delay the case after having reviewed two letters from Edwards’ cardiologist that said that his condition is life-threatening and will require surgery next month.
Lawyers for the former senator sought a 60-day delay in his criminal corruption trial back in December due to the medical condition and imminent surgery.
The start date for the trial has already been delayed twice. First to enable Edwards to prepare his defense, and also to allow the 2004 Democratic vice presidential nominee to attend his eldest daughter’s wedding.
“The public has an interest in a speedy trial, and this case has already been continued twice,” Eagles said at Friday’s hearing, according to the Associated Press.
“Ordinarily, I would try to manage something like this. But clearly there are some limitations on Mr. Edwards due to real and serious health issues,” Eagles added.
A North Carolina jury indicted Edwards in June 2011 over alleged campaign fraud. The jury held that Edwards unlawfully used political contribution funds to cover up an extramarital affair with Rielle Hunter.
Edwards, who was medically advised to avoid travel, was present at Friday’s hearing upon the judge’s request. He is facing six counts of felony and misdemeanor.
Edwards has admitted to conducting an extramarital affair in 2008 but denies any wrongdoing in the case. His wife of many years, Elizabeth Edwards died of breast cancer in 2010.
If convicted of fraudulently using campaign contribution funds from his 2008 presidential campaign, Edwards could face up to 30 years in prison.
