Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
City Hall is preparing for potential challenges to its minority set-aside program from the incoming Trump administration, raising concerns among council members about the program's future. The article discusses the city's strategies to protect this important initiative amid political changes.
Michael Madigan's trial is drawing near its conclusion as prosecutors prepare to rest their case against the former Illinois House Speaker. Significant testimonies are expected from key witnesses, including U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski, shedding light on the alleged corruption at play. The article explores the implications of the trial and the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Madigan's political legacy.
Federal charges have been unsealed against McCormick Place operations manager Dominick Gironda and contractor James Sansone for allegedly orchestrating a fraud scheme involving kickbacks from snowplow companies. The two are accused of allowing contractors to overcharge for snow removal services, with Gironda approving fictitious invoices. This case highlights significant issues of corruption within local government operations.
A judge is set to determine the fate of former assistant state's attorneys Nicholas Trutenko and Andrew Horvat, who are accused of concealing evidence in the murder trial of police officers. The proceedings, which have roots dating back to the 1980s, highlight significant issues regarding prosecutorial accountability and the integrity of the justice system. The article covers the arguments presented by both the prosecution and defense teams during the trial's final day.
A recent independent evaluation highlights the successful public/private collaboration model in Chicago and Cook County that aids residents facing eviction. This initiative not only fosters housing stability but also enhances access to justice for vulnerable communities. The findings underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing critical housing challenges.
Acero Schools officials faced criticism from Chicago Board of Education members for their absence at a crucial meeting regarding the closure of seven charter campuses. The meeting aimed to discuss Acero's plans, which have significant implications for local education, but Acero leaders accused CPS senior staff of failing to communicate essential information to board members.
A gunman has been sentenced to 60 years in prison for the fatal shooting of Northwestern graduate student Shane Colombo, who was killed by a stray bullet in September 2018. The case has brought attention to the issues surrounding gun violence and its impact on communities, with Colombo's father emphasizing the tragic irony of his son's death.
Raekwon Drake, a former basketball star from Orr High School, has been sentenced to 14 years for murder by Judge Laura Ayala-Gonzalez. The judge expressed disappointment, stating that Drake had shattered his own dreams despite his talent and potential. This case highlights the significant intersection of sports, youth, and crime in Chicago.
A former prosecutor, Nicholas Trutenko, faces charges for mishandling a high-profile murder case linked to the 1982 killings of two Chicago police officers. As the trial unfolded, Trutenko's son testified about his father's frantic attempts to erase data from his work phone after a scandal involving a witness came to light. This case highlights significant issues regarding accountability within the legal system.
The Bronzeville Trail has received a significant $900,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation aimed at developing a landscape design and studying the rail history of the area. This project will transform an abandoned elevated rail line into a two-mile walking trail, similar to Chicago's popular 606 Trail. The initiative promises to enhance local recreation and preserve historical significance.