Opening Statements Expected Monday in Madigan Trial
Jury Selection Complete, Attorneys to Present Opinions
Following two weeks of jury selection, eight women and four men are already selected. However, attorneys are working Monday morning to find the alternate jurors, with opening statements scheduled for the afternoon.
Counts Against Madigan
Michael Madigan, 82, arrived at the federal courthouse downtown Monday morning, facing a 23-count indictment filed in March 2022. The indictment accuses the longest-serving state House Speaker in U.S. history and his political associates of running Illinois and political operations like a criminal enterprise.
Co-Defendant Michael McLain
Madigan’s longtime confidence, Michael McLain, is also charged in the racketeering conspiracy. The alleged $3 million bribery scheme involves wire fraud and attempted extortion.
Secret Recordings to be Presented
Jurors will see dozens of secret audio and video recordings, previously unseen and unheard by the public, which allegedly captured incriminating conversations between Madigan, Solis, and others.
Former Ald. Danny Solis’ Cooperation
Former Chicago Ald. Danny Solis has been cooperating with investigators by wearing a wire beginning in 2016, allegedly capturing incriminating discussions with Madigan and others.
Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutors will argue that Madigan, also the longtime head of the Illinois Democratic Party, sought to generate illegal business for his private law firm by allegedly causing Solis to take official city council action to benefit him.
Length of Trial
The prosecution’s case is expected to last more than three months.
Conclusion
The stage is set for a significant trial as Michael Madigan’s defense team prepares to make its case, while prosecutors are ready to present evidence against the former state House Speaker, accused of running a criminal enterprise.
FAQs
* When do opening statements begin?
– Monday afternoon
* Who is on trial?
– Michael Madigan, former state House Speaker
* What are the charges against him?
– 23-count indictment, including racketeering conspiracy, wire fraud, and attempted extortion
* What is the expected length of the trial?
– Over three months
