Identity thieves are enrolling as "ghost students" in U.S. colleges, obtaining loans and grants, and disappearing, costing the government over $350 million.

A Virginia man has pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy charges for co-creating and operating Empire Market, a dark web marketplace. He faces ten years to life in prison, with sentencing set for June 2026.

Geneva will host three February open houses to explain a $59.4M bond to build a new police station and answer questions ahead of the March primary.

A quarrel outside the Thorntons at 23rd and Cicero left two men hurt, one by gunfire; town officials say both were stabilized and the incident appears isolated.

Police released a suspect image after a 23-year-old was punched and robbed on the Red Line at North/Clybourn; Mass Transit detectives are asking for tips.

Lurie Children’s announced plans for a low‑acuity pediatric hospital in the Downers Grove area to keep more suburban kids closer to overnight care and expand local specialties.

After election officials blocked their ballot bid, Southeast Side organizers say they’ll keep pushing for a binding community benefits deal and stronger cleanup at the PsiQuantum site.

Chicago Police arrest Deshawn Neal for the attempted murder of a woman; his detention hearing is set for today.

A Chicago police officer faces bribery and official misconduct charges for allegedly selling access to his encrypted police radio. He could get up to 7 years per bribery charge if convicted.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced a $50 million grant program, under the Rebuild Illinois Capital Program, to enhance healthcare infrastructure, aiding community health centers with construction and renovation projects.

The NTSB's preliminary review found no flight‑control or engine anomalies in the Piper PA‑30 crash at DuPage Airport that killed two people.

Police say a 30-year-old pregnant woman was found with apparent stab wounds during an apartment fire in Downers Grove; a person of interest is in custody. Investigators from county arson and state fire‑marshal teams are on the scene.

A 39-year-old woman was critically wounded early Tuesday on Aurora’s near East Side; police say detectives are investigating and seeking witnesses.