Michael Madigan, the former House speaker of Illinois, was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for corruption on June 13. He was also fined $2.5 million. The 83-year-old politician, who served in the Illinois House of Representatives from 1971 to 2021, was found guilty earlier this year of conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud after a trial that lasted four months.
Before his sentencing, Madigan expressed regret, stating, “I’m truly sorry for putting the people of the state of Illinois through this. I tried to do my best to serve the people of the state of Illinois. I am not perfect.”
Madigan has made history as the longest-serving legislative leader in the United States. During his trial, he was convicted on 10 out of 23 corruption counts. Evidence showed he conspired to have Commonwealth Edison make payments to his associates in exchange for loyalty, despite little or no real work done for the utility.
He also faced allegations of collaborating with a city council alderman to secure legal work for his private law firm and his son, in return for helping the official get appointed to a paid position.
The court noted that Madigan lied while testifying, with U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey calling his testimony “a nauseating display of perjury and evasion.” He criticized Madigan’s decision to take the stand, stating, “You lied. You did not have to.”
Madigan’s lawyers requested probation for him, citing his wife’s need for his care. However, Judge Blakey indicated that sentencing guidelines allowed for a much longer prison term. During the hearing, letters highlighting Madigan’s character were submitted, but the judge emphasized that while greatness is hard, honesty should not be.
Federal prosecutors described Madigan as fitting the mold of a corrupt leader in Illinois, despite having the chance to promote honest governance. U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros mentioned that the trial aimed to send a strong message about corruption.
Michael Madigan is expected to begin his prison sentence on October 13.
