On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Chicago Tribune published an article compiling profiles of numerous judges who have faced misconduct or criminal charges as part of their series “Culture of Corruption.” The article, titled “The Dishonor Roll: Judges,” focused on examples from the judicial branch of government in Illinois that have tarnished the state’s political history.

Among those featured was John J. Devine, who died in federal prison while serving a 15-year sentence related to Operation Greylord for accepting payoffs from corrupt lawyers. Paul Foxgrover was sentenced to six years in state prison after pleading guilty to stealing fines he imposed on defendants. Daniel Glecier received one of the lightest Greylord sentences at six years for paying and accepting bribes.

James Heiple faced impeachment proceedings for misconduct during traffic stops but was instead censured. Martin Hogan received 10 years for accepting bribes as a “lookout.” Reginald Holzer’s initial 18-year sentence was shortened but he was accused of extracting over $200,000 in loans. Ray Klingbiel and Roy Solfisburg resigned after a commission found they improperly participated in a case involving a donor.

Richard LeFevour was convicted of accepting $400,000 in bribes and sentenced to 12 years. Thomas Maloney holds the distinction of being the first convicted of rigging murder cases, receiving 15 years. John McCollom got 11 years for accepting nearly $300,000 in bribes. Michael McNulty and John Murphy were also convicted for accepting bribes.

Jessica Arong O’Brien was sentenced to a year for a previous fraud scheme. James Oakey’s sentence was increased to six years after admitting to bribing LeFevour. Wayne Olson acknowledged being “weak” and received 12 years. John Reynolds got 10 years for bribery and tax offenses. Allen Rosin fatally shot himself before facing bribery charges.

Frank Salerno pleaded guilty to fixing cases and received nine years. Roger Seaman cooperated and was sentenced to five years. David Shields got 37 months for pocketing $6,000 in bribes. George Smith admitted lying about cash payments. Raymond Sodini abruptly pleaded guilty to accepting thousands in bribes and was sentenced to eight years.

The article highlighted how these judges abused their positions for personal gain and damaged public trust in Illinois’ justice system. While not exhaustive, it served to shed light on the state’s unfortunate history of judicial corruption.

 

 

Source: Chicago Tribune