
Former Tennessee State Senator Brian Kelsey has started serving his 21-month federal prison sentence for campaign finance violations from his 2016 U.S. House bid. Kelsey, 47, pleaded guilty in November 2022 to conspiracy to defraud the Federal Election Commission and helping accept excessive contributions. He is currently incarcerated at FCI Ashland in Kentucky, according to WREG.
Kelsey’s request to delay his prison term was denied by a federal judge. The former senator’s conviction followed his admission of transferring funds illegally between his state and federal campaign committees. In court documents, he explained that stress, personal loss, and financial issues influenced his decision to accept a plea deal, as reported by Action News 5.
The former lawmaker's case has faced legal challenges, including a failed clemency bid and being added to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons' inmate search portal after missing his scheduled report date. His new legal team was unable to secure a last-minute reprieve from the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility dismissed an ethics complaint against Shelby County District Attorney General Steve Mulroy, filed by Republican Sen. Brent Taylor, under Supreme Court Rule 9. Former state House aide Cade Cothren is criticizing federal prosecutors ahead of his bribery trial, as stated by State Affairs.