Sentencing day for top RI lawmaker

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- Rhode Island's deputy speaker is expected to learn his sentence Friday, after pleading guilty to federal tax fraud charges.

Prosecutors say Rep. John McCauley used his Cranston home as part of a scheme to defraud the federal government.

McCauley admitted he and his business partner tried to cheat the government out of more than $500,000 in taxes through their insurance adjuster business.

Earlier this year, Eyewitness News obtained sentencing recommendations that claim his crimes were intended to "live a luxurious lifestyle, not to put food on the table".

Documents obtained also address McCauley's role as Rhode Island's Deputy Speaker of the House, stating "with the honors and benefits of such a position, comes the expectation that those who hold such positions will live their personal and professional lives by a higher standard."

Prosecutors filed papers that recommended McCauley be sentenced to 30 months in prison, the highest allowed under federal sentencing guidelines.