Dieterich, IL…State Representative Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) had this to say regarding the announcement by federal prosecutors on the guilty verdicts in the corruption trial of former Speaker of the Illinois House Michael J. Madigan:
“The Velvet Hammer has finally been held accountable. The real question is, why do the Democrats act like there is nothing to see here? Maybe it’s because it’s still business as usual in Springfield with no real anti-corruption legislation initiated since Madigan left.”
Madigan was Speaker for more than three decades and the former leader of the Democratic Party of Illinois, and was found guilty of conspiracy, bribery, wire fraud and other counts related to schemes involving the state’s largest utility, ComEd, and efforts to get a Chicago alderman a state board job.
Jurors deadlocked or acquitted him on counts related to an apartment project, a parking lot in Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood and AT&T legislation. Federal prosecutors have not determined whether they will seek a retrial on the deadlocked counts.
A sentencing date hasn’t been set. Madigan, 82, could face significant prison time as the wire fraud counts alone carry a maximum penalty of 20 years, according to prosecutors. Madigan also faces related forfeiture proceedings.
You may contact Rep. Niemerg at 217-813-6036 with any issues or concerns.
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