Francis going to prison would be the delight of fundamentalists everywhere, and tax evasion is a good way to "Gotcha!". If he does not spend some time in prison now, I am sure that the US Attorneys office would get the letters "Why didn't you put him away when you had the chance!!!????"

This is a guy who going to prison has political implications. I am sure Jerry Falwell was not happy when Francis basically got probation for his last run-in with the law. Since then he broke probation and now he is charged with another crime. Add all the factors together and I think he will get real prison time.

He will get out after a fairly short time but I really think that he will go to prison if convicted. Martha Stewart went to the big house for a few months too, and she came out fine. I am sure Joe will weather the storm just as well.