Frustrated federal officials want more than a slap on the wrist for John Hardee.

They want the ex-Lexington County transportation commissioner to serve up to 16 months in prison for soliciting what he thought was a teenaged prostitute.

One of Hardee’s texts read “What time works for u? I am not law. Are u? Just need to be careful & discreet!” the Charleston Post and Courier reported.

The “prostitute” was actually a law enforcement sting designed to catch predators seeking sex with teenage children.

Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said those caught were sexual “monsters.”

Hardee is Sen. Hugh Leatherman’s son-in-law. He served on the Department of Transportation Commission more than a dozen years.

He is in the Lexington County Detention Center.

Federal prosecutors have recommended that Hardee serve 10 to 16 months behind bars for violating his parole by soliciting the undercover prostitute.

He pleaded guilty to federal charges of obstructing a probe into alleged bribery.

A judge gave Hardee a light sentence of community service and house arrest.

Hardee was quickly ensnared in the undercover predator operation.

Federal prosecutors say Hardee’s text messages show he knew he was violating his probation.

The US Attorney’s Office initially supported a lighter sentence but harshly criticized Hardee in a new sentencing request.

“Hardee violated the terms and conditions of his probation less than 48 hours after sentencing, evidencing an appalling lack of respect for the law and the order of the court,” the federal prosecutors wrote.

“His immediate violation shows that his original sentence did not provide adequate deterrence to criminal conduct and a harsher sentence is warranted.

“His actions 1 day after receiving a probationary sentence show at best disregard for the court’s order and at worst a deliberate misrepresentation about his intentions,” they added.

US District Judge Terry Wooten will decide for how long Hardee will go to prison.