Madigan Sentencing: Corruption Trial Culminates | JQJO

Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, will be sentenced Friday for bribery, conspiracy, and wire fraud. Convicted in February on 10 of 23 counts after a four-month trial, prosecutors are seeking a 12 1/2-year prison sentence. Madigan's defense is requesting probation, citing his age and his wife's dependence on him. The case involved a scheme to push legislation in exchange for jobs and contracts for his associates, enriching him and his allies while neglecting the interests of Illinoisans. The court received numerous letters supporting Madigan, while prosecutors highlight the decade-long nature of his criminal activity.