Former Enron CEO Jeff Skilling was sentenced today to 24 years
in prison for his role in the energy company's 2001 collapse in
what has become one of the nation's biggest corporate scandals.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake ordered Skilling to home
confinement with an ankle bracelet to monitor his movements. He
told the U.S. Bureau of Prisons to recommend when Skilling
should report to prison and suggested he be sent to the federal
facility in Butner, N.C.  "This is not an easy decision,'' Lake
said. "Sentencing is the most difficult and least pleasant part
of my job Mr. Skilling has a family who loves him.''  He added,
however, "His crimes have imposed on hundreds if not thousands,
a life sentence of poverty."  Lake's sentence, more precisely
292 months, also ordered Skilling to participate in alcohol and
mental health programs. He also approved the forfeiture of $45
million to be distributed to Enron employees.  That money will
be distributed via the civil shareholder case going on before
U.S. District Judge M