Alderman Ed Burke Released Early After Conviction

Edward M. Burke, Chicago's longest-serving alderman, was released from federal prison after serving less than 10 months of a two-year sentence for racketeering, bribery, and extortion. Convicted in December 2023 for using his City Council position to solicit business for his law firm, often caught on secret recordings, Burke will complete his sentence in community confinement until his official release date of February 20, 2026. Upon release, he will spend a year under court-ordered supervision. Burke must pay $65,000 in restitution and a $2 million fine. His early release is reportedly due to his age and other qualifying factors, though he remains subject to travel and association restrictions. The case highlights Chicago's ongoing struggle with political corruption and parallels the sentencing of other state officials.