In Prison Interview, Hecker Says He’s Happier

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) - Convicted auto dealer Denny Hecker is about eight weeks into a 10-year sentence for fraud at a federal prison in Duluth and says he's actually happier with his life.

The man who once ran a billion dollar empire now sweeps steps at the minimum-security Federal Prison Camp in Duluth. The 58-year-old

Hecker say his former luxurious, but hectic lifestyle is only a memory. Hecker says he doesn't think he really enjoyed some of the things that he bought with his money.

After the collapse of his two dozen Twin Cities dealerships and other ventures, Hecker says he's mainly happier "spirit, mind and body-wise."

Hecker says his daily life is structured and includes Spanish classes. He says it's been made more difficult by the fact that his two younger children have not visited or written since he's been there.

Hecker pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud last year.

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