Ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to appear in court Thursday

Kilpatrick to appear before Judge Nancy Edmunds for status conference

DETROIT – The last time the public saw ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, it was moments after he was found guilty of charge after charge in his federal corruption trial.

The former mayor had clearly lost his famous swagger and confidence and looked shaken when U.S. District Judge Nancy Edmonds sent Kilpatrick directly to jail.

Recommended Videos



But he's due back in her courtroom at 10:30 a.m. Thursday.

It will be his first appearance in public since his conviction for what is being called a "status hearing."

VIEW: Kwame Kilpatrick status hearing

Kilpatrick wants out of prison before his sentencing and has made several pleas to the court.

Kilpatrick was found guilty of racketeering, extortion, tax evasion and wire fraud in March.

Over the past several weeks, Kilpatrick has requested (and been denied) bond three times.
Kilpatrick is currently awaiting sentencing at a federal prison in Milan. He faces up to 20 years or more in prison.

READ: Judge denies bond request for Kwame Kilpatrick

Now we're learning Kilpatrick says he is injured -- allegedly hurting his knee and arguing that he's a target for violence in prison. There have been no reported incidents of Kilpatrick having any problems behind bars.

Thursday's court action sets the stage for Kilpatrick to appeal his conviction on charges he and Bobby Ferguson shook down contractors to make themselves rich and that Kilpatrick used donations to help Detroit kids and neighborhoods for he and his family to live the high life.

VIEW: Kwame Kilpatrick files motion for a new trial

Kilpatrick is blaming the news media, his own lawyers and improper instructions given to the jury, as reasons why he should be released on bond.

All indications are that Kilpatrick doesn't take responsibility for his actions and will continue his court battle.

VIEW: Full request from Kilpatrick's defense team

READ: Prosecutors say Kwame Kilpatrick's bond request should be denied

Kwame Kilpatrick in court -- Sketch by Jerry Lemenu


About the Authors:

Local 4 Defender Shawn Ley is an Emmy award-winning journalist who has been with Local 4 News for more than a decade.