NATION IN BRIEF : NORTH CAROLINA : Attorneys Ask for Bakker’s Release

Jim Bakker’s attorneys asked a federal judge in Charlotte, N.C., to release the PTL founder on bond while he awaits resentencing on a 1989 conviction for defrauding followers of millions of dollars. Prosecutors said during the hearing that Bakker should remain in prison in Rochester, Minn., because he may attempt to flee or his followers may try to hide him. No decision will be made until next week, a delay the judge allowed so lawyers could submit more evidence. Bakker won a resentencing hearing last month when the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld his convictions on fraud and conspiracy but threw out his 45-year sentence.