Handy Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison

Last Update: 6:01 pm

MCALLEN - A former Hidalgo County commissioner was sentenced to 30 months in prison. Sylvia Handy has until August 20 to surrender to U.S. Marshals. She pleaded guilty in March to conspiracy to harbor aliens and to filing an incorrect tax return.

U.S. District Judge Ricardo Hinojosa said he will advise that she be placed in a facility close to her family, where she can get medical attention for a heart condition.

He allowed a tearful Handy to make a statement before she was sentenced. She said she was sorry for what she did and repeatedly asked the judge for mercy in sentencing.

The judge repeatedly asked Handy to explain what she was sorry for and to admit her wrongdoing in hiring multiple illegal aliens to work for her.

She said she could only admit to hiring one.

After her response, the judge told her she refused to admit the facts and that she had not been honest with the court or her fellow citizens.

After the sentencing, Handy said, "I'm glad this is over. God bless everyone. Thank you for all your support. I love everyone. I love Hidalgo County and I'm just happy this is over."

Handy could have been sentenced up to 13 years in federal prison. Her sentencing was delayed because of new evidence. In a document presented to the court, the woman who was allegedly the "phantom employee" paid by the county claims the situation was "all her fault." Prosecutors accused Handy of making the letter herself.


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