Former New York City police commissioner Bernard Kerik was sentenced to four years in federal prison Thursday.

According to investigators, Kerik used a contractor with alleged mob ties and steered city contracts in their direction. He also admitted he lied to the White House when he was nominated to run the Department of Homeland Security.

Kerik and his defense team were hoping Judge Stephen Robinson would stay within the 27- to- 33-month sentencing guideline, which was part of a plea agreement last November. However, Robinson opted for a harsher sentence.

During the sentencing, Kerik apologized for his actions. He is scheduled to report to a federal prison May 17.

For Bernard Kerik's statement after sentencing, go to your digital cable box and select iO Extra on Ch. 612.