Former Illinois House Speaker Sentenced to 7.5 Years for Corruption

Michael Madigan, once the most powerful man in Illinois politics, has been sentenced to 7.5 years in prison and fined $2.5 million after being found guilty on 10 counts of corruption, including bribery and wire fraud. Known as the “Velvet Hammer,” Madigan, 83, held the Speaker position for nearly 40 years and led the state Democratic Party for over two decades.

The trial revealed Madigan used his influence to benefit allies through utility giant ComEd, securing jobs and contracts in exchange for favorable legislation. Despite his age and his wife’s declining health, the judge denied probation, citing Madigan’s abuse of power and dishonesty under oath.

Prosecutors argued Madigan showed no real remorse and called him a symbol of Illinois’ deep-rooted corruption. His defense portrayed him as a modest, family-focused man, but the judge remained firm: “Greatness is difficult. Honesty is not.”

This marks a dramatic fall for a man who once controlled billions in state policy—and now faces prison for using public office for personal gain.