Judge: Hecker will stay jailed until sentencing

Minneapolis (AP) — A federal judge has ruled that former auto magnate Denny Hecker will stay in jail until his sentencing on fraud charges.

Hecker had asked to be released, saying he's not a flight risk or a danger to society. But prosecutors disagreed, saying he poses an "economic danger" to the community.

During a hearing Tuesday, Chief U.S. District Judge Michael Davis said Hecker would remain in custody. He's been in jail since October.

Hecker has pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud and conspiracy. Prosecutors say he duped Chrysler Financial out of more than $13 million in loans. Prosecutors will ask for the maximum 10-year sentence.

Hecker is expected to be sentenced at the end of this month.

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