Fact Check: Michael Madigan was convicted on 10 of 23 counts, including bribery and conspiracy, during a corruption trial that lasted four months.

Fact Check: Michael Madigan Convicted on 10 of 23 Counts

What We Know

Michael Madigan, the former Illinois House Speaker and the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, was convicted on 10 of 23 counts during a corruption trial that lasted four months. The charges included bribery, conspiracy, and wire fraud, all linked to a scheme involving the utility company ComEd, where Madigan allegedly pushed legislation in exchange for jobs and contracts for his associates (NBC Chicago, ABC News). The trial featured extensive evidence, including testimonies from 60 witnesses and numerous documents, photographs, and recorded conversations (NBC Chicago, People).

Madigan was ultimately sentenced to 90 months in prison and fined $2.5 million. The jury had deadlocked on six counts, including a racketeering conspiracy charge, and acquitted him on seven others (NBC Chicago, CBS News).

Analysis

The claim that Michael Madigan was convicted on 10 of 23 counts during a four-month corruption trial is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The NBC Chicago report details the specifics of the trial, including the number of witnesses and the nature of the charges, confirming the conviction on bribery and conspiracy (NBC Chicago). Similarly, ABC News corroborates this information, emphasizing the significant duration of the trial and the complexity of the case (ABC News).

The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their reputation for journalistic integrity and their comprehensive coverage of the trial proceedings. Additionally, the information aligns with reports from other outlets such as People and CBS News, which also confirm the details of the conviction and sentencing (People, CBS News).

Given the consistency across various reputable sources, the claim stands strong against scrutiny.

Conclusion

The claim that Michael Madigan was convicted on 10 of 23 counts, including bribery and conspiracy, during a four-month corruption trial is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms the details of his conviction and the extensive nature of the trial.

Sources

1. Michael Madigan sentenced to prison in corruption case
2. The longest-serving legislative leader in US history will be ...
3. Michael Madigan Sentenced to 7.5 Years, Fined $2.5M ...
4. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan ...
5. Ex-Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan Sentenced to 7.5 ...
6. Ex-Speaker Madigan sentenced to 7 ½ years in prison for ...
7. Michael Madigan finally faces sentencing in corruption case