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April 18, 2006

Illinois Executive Branch and Corruption

The Illinois Executive Branch has a tarnished history. Prior to former governor George Ryan’s conviction on April 17, 2006, three other Illinois governors were indicted on corruption charges.

Lennington Small, Governor of Illinois 1921-1929, was indicted for money laundering. The charges stemmed from his term as Illinois State Treasurer, but failed to stick as the jury found him innocent. Members of that jury later gained patronage jobs with the state.

William G. Stratton, Governor of Illinois 1953-1961, was acquitted of tax evasion charges.

Otto Kerner, Jr., Illinois Governor 1961-1968, was convicted on 17 charges ranging from bribery and conspiracy, to perjury.

Daniel Walker, Illinois Governor 1973-1977, was imprisoned after his political life, for mismanagement of the First American Savings and Loan Association.

For a more in-depth look at the dark history of Illinois politics read this article from the April 18, 2006, Chicago Tribune.

Posted by hinsdalereference at April 18, 2006 11:55 AM