Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, once one of the most powerful figures in Illinois politics, is set to face a federal trial on charges of racketeering and bribery.
Madigan, who served for nearly five decades, is accused of using his political influence to run a 'criminal enterprise' aimed at amassing personal wealth and power. The trial, which begins with jury selection this week, is one of the largest public corruption cases in Illinois history. The key issue will be whether Madigan knowingly exchanged political favors for personal gain.
His co-defendant, Michael McClain, faces similar charges.
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After storied time as the ‘Velvet Hammer,’ Michael Madigan to face a jury
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It was Jan. 12, 1983, and the newly installed Democratic Speaker Michael J. Madigan stood on the Illinois House podium, surveyed the kingdom he now ruled and picked up the
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Jury selection begins this week in corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan
CHICAGO -- Jury selection will begin this week in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, whose half-century career and status as Illinois' most powerful politician ended nearly four years ago as the feds circled ever-closer to his inner circle.
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