Michael Madigan convicted of bribery, wire fraud in corruption trial

Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was found guilty on 10 counts, including conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud, in a high-profile corruption trial. The jury acquitted him on seven counts and deadlocked on six others, including a racketeering charge. Prosecutors accused Madigan of leveraging his political influence to secure jobs and contracts for loyalists in exchange for favorable legislation, particularly involving the utility company ComEd. The trial featured over 60 witnesses and extensive recorded evidence from a former Chicago alderman who turned informant. Madigan, who had a significant impact on Illinois politics for decades, did not address the media after the verdict. His attorney indicated plans to seek a mistrial on the unresolved charges, while Madigan previously denied any wrongdoing in his testimony.