An alleged abuse victim of Dennis Hastert has identified himself as the brother of the former House Speaker’s political ally.
{mosads}Scott Cross, 53, identified himself Wednesday in court in Chicago as a victim of abuse decades ago in high school — and as “Individual D” listed in court documents surrounding Hastert’s alleged hush money case, according to reporters in the room.
Cross took the stand on Wednesday and delivered an emotional testimony describing the abuse he said he suffered as a 17-year-old at Yorkville High School in Illinois, where Hastert was a teacher and coach.
The Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday that Cross had “long ago” confirmed he was the “Individual D” listed in documents, but asked that his identify not be revealed until he appeared in court.
His older brother, state Rep. Tom Cross, was a longtime Illinois House GOP leader, according to the Tribune, which noted Cross had in the past credited Hastert with helping him ascend to public office.
Sources told the Tribune that Hastert asked the former legislator earlier this year if he’d write a letter of support ahead of his sentencing, but Tom Cross did not respond because he aware of his brother’s allegation.
Prosecutors have said Hastert abused at least four boys during his time as a wrestling coach and teacher before entering politics, and the former Speaker appeared in court Wednesday for sentencing.