Introduction to the ComEd Case
Summer sentencing dates have been scheduled for four former ComEd officials and lobbyists convicted of conspiring to illegally influence former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan. A federal jury in May 2023 convicted Madigan ally Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, ex-ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and onetime City Club President Jay Doherty for the nearly decadelong plot.
Background of the Case
They very nearly faced sentencing in January 2024. But their sentencings were put on hold after the U.S. Supreme Court picked up a corruption case involving a former mayor of Portage, Indiana. The high court’s ruling in June 2024 restricted the feds’ use of a popular bribery law at play in the ComEd case.
Latest Developments
U.S. District Judge Manish Shah last month tossed four bribery counts in the ComEd case following that Supreme Court ruling. However, the four defendants each remain convicted of one conspiracy count and four counts of falsifying books and records. The counts involving books and records are tied to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. President Donald Trump has ordered a 180-day pause and review of enforcement of the law, and defense attorneys say the ComEd case is getting new scrutiny from the Justice Department.
Sentencing Dates
Still, Shah insisted on setting sentencing dates over objections from defense attorneys. Hooker is set to be sentenced on July 14, Pramaggiore on July 21, McClain on July 24, and Doherty on Aug. 5. Madigan was convicted in February, after a separate trial, for his role in the ComEd bribery conspiracy and other crimes. He is set to be sentenced June 13.
Conclusion
The sentencing of the former ComEd officials and lobbyists marks a significant milestone in the case, which has shed light on the corrupt practices that plagued the highest levels of Illinois politics. As the defendants prepare to face justice, the people of Illinois can take comfort in knowing that those responsible for the corruption will be held accountable.
FAQs
Q: What were the former ComEd officials and lobbyists convicted of?
A: They were convicted of conspiring to illegally influence former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan and falsifying books and records.
Q: What is the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act?
A: The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act is a law that prohibits the bribery of foreign officials, and its enforcement has been paused for 180 days for review.
Q: When are the sentencing dates for the defendants?
A: Hooker is set to be sentenced on July 14, Pramaggiore on July 21, McClain on July 24, and Doherty on Aug. 5. Madigan is set to be sentenced June 13.
