Closing Arguments in Madigan Corruption Trial: Prosecutors Allege Ex-Speaker Conspired for Power and Profit
Jury Instructions Set High Bar for Prosecution
US District Judge John Robert Blakey spent nearly two hours reading more than 100 pages of jury instructions earlier Wednesday, setting a high bar for federal prosecutors to prove conspiracy among the defendants with intent to advance their alleged activities.
Prosecutors Reiterate Case Against Madigan and McClain
Assistant US Attorney Julia Schwartz reiterated the state’s case, arguing that former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan and political confidante Michael McClain were not working on behalf of the people of the State of Illinois, but rather to enhance their own power.
Power & Profit
A PowerPoint presentation shown in court Wednesday began with two words in boldface: ‘Power & Profit.’ Former federal prosecutor and now private attorney Patrick Collins told WGN News that the presentation is designed to give the jurors a roadmap of how to talk about the case when they go back in the jury room.
Prosecutors Focus on Danny Solis Testimony
Prosecutors focused quickly on Danny Solis, who testified during the three-month-long trial. Solis, the government’s star witness, began wearing a wire for the FBI in 2016, eventually capturing his private conversations with Madigan and others.
Madigan’s Alleged Abuse of Power
Prosecutors alleged that Madigan abused his public office and the office of Chicago Alderman Danny Solis to get business for his private law firm. Schwartz argued that Madigan used his position to advance his own interests and those of his associates, rather than serving the public.
Defendants Deny Any Wrongdoing
Madigan and McClain both deny any wrongdoing and are facing a 23-count criminal indictment on corruption charges. Closing arguments could last three days or longer.
Conclusion
The prosecution’s case against Madigan and McClain relies heavily on the testimony of Danny Solis and secret undercover recordings. The jury will now deliberate and decide whether the defendants are guilty of the charges against them. The outcome of the trial is expected to have significant implications for Illinois politics and the public’s perception of government corruption.
FAQs
What are the charges against Madigan and McClain? The defendants are facing a 23-count criminal indictment on corruption charges, including racketeering, bribery, and conspiracy.
What is the prosecution’s theory of the case? Prosecutors allege that Madigan and McClain conspired to use their positions of power to advance their own interests and those of their associates, rather than serving the public.
What is the significance of Danny Solis’ testimony? Solis, the government’s star witness, began wearing a wire for the FBI in 2016 and captured his private conversations with Madigan and others. His testimony is expected to be a key piece of evidence in the prosecution’s case.
