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Ms. Holmes, 38, faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, according to federal sentencing guidelines for wire fraud. Her lawyers have asked for 18 months of house arrest, while prosecutors have asked for 15 years in prison. Ms. Holmes’ probation officer has recommended a nine-year sentence.
Judge Edward J. Davila of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, who presided over Ms. Holmes’ trial last year, will make the decision. In addition to the letters from her supporters pleading for mercy, he plans to consider lengthy memos filed by her lawyers and prosecutors, as well as whether Ms. Holmes has accepted responsibility for her actions.
