Vrdolyak judge defends decision

March 3, 2009 (CHICAGO) The former Chicago alderman was in court for Tuesday's status hearing. Vrdolyak had pleaded guilty in a crooked real estate deal involving a medical school. He was sentenced to five years probation.

Judge Milton Shadur said the sentence he handed down last week was supported by federal guidelines.

Prosecutors wanted jail time and restitution.

Tuesday, Judge Shadur reiterated that Vrdolyak would not have to pay restitution since the school had not suffered a loss in the deal.

Vrdolyak does have to pay a $50,000 fine and perform community service.