Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was sentenced Friday to seven and a half years in prison and fined $2.5 million for corruption.
The longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, Madigan was convicted of trading legislation for favors benefiting friends and allies, including pushing laws favorable to utility giant ComEd in exchange for kickbacks.
U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey criticized Madigan for perjury and evasion during the trial. Prosecutors sought 12.5 years, but Madigan’s lawyers asked for probation, citing his age and need to care for his ailing wife. Madigan’s defense called the sentence “draconian.” He served nearly 40 years as speaker and controlled Illinois politics, amassing an estimated $40 million fortune. Despite his request for mercy, the judge condemned his actions as a “nauseating display” of dishonesty. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker said Madigan failed to show genuine remorse. Madigan apologized briefly, asking to remain with his family in his final years.
