Judge sees little Supreme Court impact

Attorneys in ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan’s corruption trial debated the definition of “corruptly” in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling, but Judge Blakey ultimately relied on 7th Circuit precedent. The judge indicated that prosecutors must prove a defendant knew they were partaking in a bribe, not necessarily that they knew it was illegal, potentially ruling out a “mistake-of-law” defense for Madigan. The trial, which began in October, is set to progress to closing arguments soon, with the jury instruction conference playing a crucial role following a recent Supreme Court decision.

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