Ex-GOP Rep. Fortenberry gets probation for lying to feds

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Former Republican U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska was sentenced to two years of probation, a $25,000 fine and community service for lying to federal authorities about $30,000 in illegal campaign contributions. Tuesday’s sentence came as voters in his district were deciding on his replacement in a special election. The 61-year-old resigned in March shortly after a California jury found him guilty of lying to FBI agents about the donations from a Nigerian billionaire. He says the ordeal has been traumatic, and he plans to appeal. Back in his GOP-leaning district, Republican state Sen. Mike Flood is running against Democrat Patty Pansing Brooks in a special election Tuesday to replace Fortenberry.