Disgraced former San Diego Mayor Bob Filner is expected to be sentenced Monday morning. In October, he pleaded guilty to three counts involving sexual harassment, including a felony.
Under a plea agreement, Filner is expected to get three years of probation and three years of house arrest. Because of the felony count, he will never be able to vote or hold public office again.
Special Section: Mayor Under Fire
But what about Filner’s long-term future? Will he be able to make a personal comeback after a humiliating end to his long political career?
Psychiatrist Clark Smith says yes. Clack says, like a Roger Hedgecock or a Bill Clinton, Filner can find his way back.
“People might be willing to listen to his point of view, whether it’s politics or economics,” Clark said. “People might be interested in what he has to say.”
“We see people who are intelligent and knowledgeable and experienced who have a role to play as a commentator or as a consultant,” he said. “I think he can do that.”
But Clark says that acceptance doesn’t mean forgiveness. For that, he says Filner must be truly honest about what made it all come to this—without self-deception or denial.
“It’s possible he needs to make amends to people he has harmed through this. It’s going to be hard because he’s going to be subjected to civil lawsuits, and he’s going to have to defend himself,” Clark said. “I think that makes the situation even more difficult.”
Gloria Allred, the famed attorney representing one of Filner’s alleged victims in a civil suit, is expected to be in court for Monday’s sentencing.
After weeks of controversy, recall efforts and women coming forward with sexual harassment claims, Filner resigned from office Aug. 23.