Former AT&T Illinois CEO on Bribery Trial

Paul La Schiazza, the former head of AT&T Illinois, is on trial for allegedly bribing then-state House Speaker Michael Madigan to secure favorable legislation. Prosecutors accuse La Schiazza of funneling $22,500 to Madigan's ally, ex-state Rep. Edward Acevedo, in a bid to influence legislative support for a bill that would save AT&T millions. During closing arguments, prosecutors highlighted emails in which La Schiazza expressed frustration over ongoing requests for donations from Madigan's office, indicating a corrupt exchange between the parties. The defense counters that La Schiazza’s actions were part of standard political relationship-building and that there is no concrete evidence of wrongdoing. Madigan himself faces separate charges and is set to stand trial shortly. Jurors are deliberating, with a verdict expected soon.