Michael J. Madigan, Racketeering and Bribery, Illinois 2024

CHICAGO — In a shocking turn of events, former Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives Michael J. Madigan has been indicted on 22-count racketeering and bribery charges for allegedly using his official position to corruptly solicit and receive personal financial rewards for himself and his associates.

The indictment, announced today, accuses Madigan of leading a nearly decade-long criminal enterprise whose purpose was to enhance his political power and financial well-being while also generating income for his political allies and associates.

Madigan, 79, of Chicago, is charged with racketeering conspiracy, using interstate facilities in aid of bribery, wire fraud, and attempted extortion. His close friend and co-defendant, Michael F. McClain, 74, of Quincy, Ill., is also charged with racketeering conspiracy, using interstate facilities in aid of bribery, and wire fraud.

The indictment alleges that Madigan directed the activities of McClain and that the two caused various businesses, including Commonwealth Edison, to make monetary payments to Madigan’s associates as a reward for their loyalty to Madigan, at times in return for performing little or no legitimate work for the businesses.

According to the indictment, Madigan and McClain allegedly engaged in multiple schemes to reap the benefits of private legal work unlawfully steered to Madigan’s law firm, including legal work from those with business before the State of Illinois and City of Chicago.

The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amarjeet S. Bhachu, Diane MacArthur, Timothy J. Chapman, Sarah E. Streicker, Michelle Kramer, and Julia Schwartz.

Defendant: Michael J. Madigan; Charges: Racketeering conspiracy, using interstate facilities in aid of bribery, wire fraud, and attempted extortion; City and State: Chicago, Illinois; Date: April 30, 2024; Outcome: Currently charged and awaiting arraignment in U.S. District Court in Chicago.

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