One of the most powerful lawmakers in Illinois’ history begins his federal prison term Monday.
Michael Madigan, a Chicago Democrat who holds the title of the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, reports to prison where he will begin serving his 7-and-a-half year sentence on corruption charges.
Madigan was convicted of bribery and wire fraud in February. He was sentenced in June.
Madigan must turn in to the institution assigned by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons by 2 p.m.
It is not clear where Madigan will be located behind bars. His lawyers during sentencing requested that serve time at a facility in Terre Haute, Indiana.
Madigan is 83-year-old.
The former Speaker of Illinois’ House was convicted on 10 federal corruptions charges after a lengthy trial.
A jury found Madigan guilty of a ComEd-related bribery conspiracy charge that alleged he helped the utility to pass certain legislation in exchange for hiring associates of Madigan’s who acted as do-nothing consultants.
Madigan was also found guilty on multiple counts regarding a scheme to appoint a former Chicago alderman to a state board job in exchange for helping to steer business to Madigan’s private law firm.
Madigan resigned his 22nd District seat in 2021 after spending 50 years the Illinois House. Madigan was also the chamber’s speaker for 36 of the last 38 years he was in office.
Tom Ackerman covers breaking news and trending news along with general news for the Springfield State Journal-Register. He can be reached at tackerman@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to begin federal prison term
Reporting by Tom Ackerman, Springfield State Journal-Register / State Journal-Register
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