FORT WORTH, Texas -- Former Louisiana Gov. Edwin Edwards checked in to federal prison Monday to begin his 10-year sentence, wearing a white jogging suit and joking with reporters.

"I appreciate the fact the court system and prison system have allowed me to self-surrender," Edwards said before entering the low-security facility.

Edwards, 75, was sentenced to 10 years in prison after his May 2000 racketeering, extortion and fraud conviction in a scheme to rig the casino licensing process.

While maintaining his innocence, the colorful former governor said he accepted his situation, adding, "It is the system; it's a good system. In this case, it went awry."

Edwards is appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court.