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Ex-Speaker Sal DiMasi freed from prison, returns to Massachusetts

BOSTON — Former Massachusetts House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi has arrived home five years after being sent to federal prison on corruption charges.

DiMasi arrived at Boston's Logan airport Tuesday in an emotional homecoming after being released from a prison in North Carolina.

“I just want to say how happy I am grateful and thankful that I’m home in Boston,” he said.

Flanked by his wife and adult children, DiMasi spoke to reporters at the airport.

“It’s a very emotional day for me. It’s been a trying and difficult experience for me," he said. “I just want to tell you how much I love my wife for what she’s done for me.”

Earlier this month, a judge granted DiMasi compassionate release as he struggles with health problems. He sat in a wheelchair and appeared gaunt as he spoke to reporters. His lawyers have said he lost 70 pounds in prison.

The once-powerful Democrat was treated for both throat and prostate cancer while in prison. His treatments caused a narrowing of his esophagus that creates a risk of choking.

SALVATORE DIMASI CRIMINAL TIMELINE
June 2011 Convicted of extortion and other crimes following 6 week trial
November 2011 Begins serving 8 year sentenced in federal prison
April 2012 Diagnosed with cancer- tongue and neck
July 2013 Diagnosed as cancer free
November 2015 Diagnosed with prostate cancer
July 2016 Bureau of Prisons denies request for compassionate release
August 2016 Diagnosed as cancer free
August 2016 Prison doctor characterizes condition as unstable – choking risk
October 2016 Government files motion to reduce sentence
November 17, 2016 Judge orders his release
November 22, 2016 NEW Release date