HAMMOND | Former Lake County Clerk Thomas Philpot has asked to stay out of jail pending the appeal of his conviction for stealing more than $24,000 in bonuses from public child support incentive funds.
U.S. District Judge James Moody ordered Philpot to report April 3 to a federal correctional camp in Illinois for a sentence of 18 months.
Philpot is requesting the court allow him to remain free on bond while appealing, stating he's been on bond for a year and a half without incident, according to the motion.
Philpot contends that 18 months is a relatively short sentence and he'd likely serve most of the time before the court decides on his appeal.
“His appeal will raise substantial questions of law and will not be taken for purposes of delay or for any improper purpose,” federal court records state.
Philpot has supported his family and received counseling for alcohol-related and emotional issues while on bond, according to the motion.
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