Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan loses last attempt to overturn conviction
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's last-ditch effort to overturn his conviction was denied Monday.
Madigan appeared for a brief hearing in U.S. District Court Monday, and a judge blocked his motion for acquittal or a new trial.
This followed a four-month trial in which Madigan was accused of running a years-long criminal enterprise to enrich himself and his political allies. In February, he was convicted of bribery conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud charges, but he was acquitted of several other charges.
Last week, Madigan's wife sent a video pleading with the judge, explaining how she wouldn't know what to do without him around.
"I really don't exist without him. I wish I could say that I do, but I don't know what I would do without Michael. I would probably have to find someplace to live, and I would have to find care," Shirley Madigan said.
She hopes this video will be played in open court ahead of his sentencing on Friday.
Madigan could potentially face up to 20 years in prison. But prosecutors are seeking a 12 1/2 year sentence for Madigan, while the defense is asking for probation.
