NBC NEWS — Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was sentenced to 14 years in prison today.

Before being sentenced in a Chicago U.S. District Court, Blagojevich apologized for his crimes and asked the judge for mercy.

The ousted governor was convicted of 18 corruption counts, including an attempt to sell President Obama's old senate seat.

He's the second successive Illinois governor sentenced for corruption.

Blagojevich's predecessor, George Ryan, is currently serving a six and a half year term.