(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Four former ComEd insiders have been indicted as part of a corruption investigation inching closer to Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office on Wednesday announced bribery and bribery conspiracy charges against former CEO Anne Pramaggiore; former executive John Hooker; onetime City Club of Chicago head Jay Doherty; and lobbyist Michael McClain, a Madigan confidant.
Prosecutors say the four conspired with outside consultants to corruptly influence and reward a high-level elected state official to help with the passage of legislation favorable to ComEd. The group allegedly falsified ComEd books and records.
ComEd has already admitted it illegally engaged in a scheme to curry favor with Madigan in an effort to win approval for utility rate increases. The utility has agreed to pay $200 million.
Madigan, who also chairs the Illinois Democratic Party, has not been charged with a crime and has said he has not peddled his influence. He has sought to retain his roles as speaker and party chair, but an increasing number of Democrats have suggested he step aside.
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