7th Day of Deliberations Wrap Without Verdict in Madigan Corruption Trial
Jury Still Weighing Evidence
The federal corruption trial of Michael Madigan, the former Illinois House Speaker, has entered its seventh day of jury deliberations without a verdict. Despite the passing of two days since the last juror’s note, the jury’s questions have yet to shed light on when the former Speaker and his longtime confidant could learn their fate.
Evidence Still Being Combed Through
According to former federal prosecutor and ex-Illinois Republican Party Chair Pat Brady, the jury still has a significant amount of evidence to review. “I think this had a real big impact on the state and the history of Mike Madigan,” Brady said.
Complex Case
Brady, who has followed the case closely, explained that conspiracy is one of the most complicated areas of criminal law. “It’s one of the most complicated areas of criminal law you can present a case on,” Brady said.
Testimony and Arguments
For more than 40 hours, jurors have been deliberating on the months of testimony, secret calls, videos, and arguments from all sides. They are tasked with weighing testimony from the ex-Speaker, who took the stand in his own defense.
A Defendant’s Choice to Testify
Brady believes that a defendant’s choice to testify in their own defense is “risky.” “I always believed that when the defendant ended up testifying in these public corruption cases that that meant they didn’t think they proved their case up in the government’s case, which is typically what they try to do,” he said.
Madigan’s Statements
Jurors were told to consider a statement Madigan made that may be inconsistent with one he’s given in the past. “They only need to catch you up in one lie for your credibility to be blown,” Brady said.
Scheduling
It’s been two days since the last juror’s note inquired about scheduling. Despite only having one substantive question in a week, the jury’s next move remains uncertain.
Maximum Penalty
The maximum penalty on the charges faced by both Madigan and his co-defendant, McClain, range from five to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Conclusion
As the jury continues to deliberate, both Madigan and McClain await their fate following a trial covering five alleged schemes and crimes that span nearly a decade. The outcome is still uncertain, but one thing is clear – the impact of this trial on the state of Illinois will be significant.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges faced by Michael Madigan and McClain?
A: Madigan is charged with 23 counts, and McClain is charged with six counts.
Q: What is the maximum penalty on the charges faced by both defendants?
A: The maximum penalty ranges from five to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Q: Have both defendants denied any wrongdoing?
A: Yes, both Madigan and McClain have denied any wrongdoing.
Q: What is the significance of this trial?
A: The trial has significant implications for the state of Illinois, given the length of time Madigan served as House Speaker and the alleged schemes and crimes that were uncovered.
