Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has been handed a sentence of 7 ½ years behind bars, a $2.5 million fine, and a consequent three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. At 83 years old, Madigan's age is noteworthy considering he must serve at least 85% of his sentence before he's eligible for release, setting his potential release age close to 90. This development follows his earlier conviction on charges that included bribery, conspiracy, and fraud, as CBS News Chicago reported.
During the sentencing, U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey characterized the situation as a "tale of two Mikes," acknowledging Madigan's public service contributions, yet condemning his involvement in corruption. "You lied sir. You did not have to," Judge Blakey expressed, indicating the former speaker's decision to testify might have been counterproductive to his defense. In response to the trial and its outcome, Madigan maintained a stance of contrition yet firm in his innocence, stating, "I am truly sorry for putting the people of the state of Illinois through this. I tried to do my best to serve the people of the state. I am not perfect," according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Madigan's legal team, pleading for leniency, pointed to nearly 250 letters of support and a video plea from his ailing wife. However, the prosecution countered with arguments emphasizing that positive deeds do not mitigate criminal behavior, a sentiment echoed by Judge Blakey during his ruling. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker stated during proceedings that while Madigan engaged in good at times, his misuse of immense political power for personal benefit could not be overlooked, "Whether good policy or bad, legislation should not be bought," she asserted.
Conversely, Madigan's attorney, Dan Collins, argued for a more lenient sentence, citing a life dedicated to service without seeking power or personal enrichment. However, in contrast, the prosecutor pointed to evidence of Madigan's repeated lies during his testimony, "When his back was against the wall he chose to take the witness stand and lie," said Streicker. CBS News Chicago legal analyst Irv Miller suggested that based on the sentencing hearing's progression, it was apparent that a stringent sentence was being formulated, with the judge’s rulings predominantly opposing Madigan's defensive stance.
In the end, Shirley Madigan's appeal to the court did not sway the outcome, as Madigan now faces the consequences of his involvement in the extensive corruption uncovered by federal investigators. His pivotal role in orchestrating no-show jobs for his allies and leveraging legislative support for ComEd, in exchange for personal gains, defined his downfall.
