The defense says fairness demands a dismissal. But prosecutors say dropping the charge would feed the perception that famous people are treated differently.

She says she would use her time in prison to bring about positive changes, including donating her hair for cancer victims and designing T-shirts to raise money for victims of domestic abuse.

Former IRS Commissioner Douglas Shulman could prove to be a significant player in a scandal that has driven the Obama administration to distraction.

For many families, the ordeal ended in bear hugs and tears of joy as loved ones reunited. Others were left to wait in the darkness, hoping for good news while fearing the worst.