Former Alderman Danny Solis, once a linchpin in Chicago's zoning decisions, is now cast over the upcoming racketeering trial of ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. After steering clear of the witness stand in Ed Burke's trial last year, federal prosecutors plan to call Solis to testify in October against Madigan and his co-defendant, long-time ally Michael McClain.
Madigan, who led the Illinois House for decades, faces charges related to allegations of orchestrating corruption schemes to bolster his political power and line the pockets of his associates. The federal trial, set to unfold at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse, is being touted as a significant event - possibly the biggest since former Gov. Rod Blagojevich found himself in the courtroom's crosshairs, as mentioned by Chicago Sun-Times.
Despite Solis's absence on the stand during Burke's trial, his undercover work has not gone unnoticed. The WTTW reported that Solis, in a deferred prosecution agreement after admitting to taking bribes, secretly recorded conversations that are now pivotal to the case against Madigan.
Solis's testimony is expected to revolve around his dealings with Madigan, including allegations that the former speaker prodded Solis for introductions to developers, who could then become clients for Madigan's law firm. Solis will also speak to an alleged ruse involving a state board seat discussed with Madigan, as detailed by the feds in court documents obtained by WTTW.
Madigan's legal woes come on the heels of Burke's recent conviction where he was found guilty on 13 of 14 counts, including racketeering, bribery, and attempted extortion. Solis had worn a wire for the feds capturing crucial interactions, and while his own recordings of Burke were played at trial, it wasn't until the defense called him that jurors heard Solis's firsthand account, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times.
