Rockford Sun

A federal judge has handed down a 5 ½ year prison sentence to corrupt businessman James T. Weiss for his involvement in a bribery scheme. Weiss was found guilty during a federal trial that concluded in June. The sentencing took place at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago, where U.S. District Judge Steven Seeger made it clear that corruption is a stain on the city's reputation.

In his ruling, Judge Seeger stated, "Mr. Weiss, you added another star to Chicago's walk of shame on the sidewalk of corruption." He emphasized that corruption is an embarrassment to the city and society as a whole. Weiss had bribed two Illinois Democratic lawmakers, Luis Arroyo and Terry Link, in an attempt to manipulate state law for his own benefit.

Weiss paid $32,500 in bribes to Arroyo and $5,000 to Link, with plans to pay Link an additional $25,000. These illegal activities were aimed at favoring Weiss's electronic sweepstakes business. During the trial, Weiss was found guilty of multiple charges, including honest services wire and mail fraud, bribery, and lying to the FBI.

Arroyo, who pleaded guilty to bribery charges in 2021, is currently serving a prison sentence. Link, on the other hand, cooperated with the FBI investigation and is awaiting sentencing for his own tax crimes. Both Arroyo and Link are members of the Democratic Party. Weiss, who is married to former Democratic state representative Toni Berrios, was deemed more responsible for the bribery scheme by Judge Seeger.

This case comes in the wake of the 'ComEd Four' verdict, which involved former Democratic House Speaker Mike Madigan. Four ComEd employees were found guilty on a total of 30 corruption charges. These high-profile cases highlight the need for meaningful corruption and ethics reform in Illinois.

While Illinois House Republicans have consistently pushed for such reforms, the state still lags behind others in implementing significant changes. It is crucial to eliminate conflicts of interest and empower the Legislative Inspector General with subpoena powers to ensure a more honest and transparent government. House Republicans believe that legislators should prioritize public service over self-interest and that the era of pay-to-play politics must come to an end.

In conclusion, the sentencing of James T. Weiss to 5 ½ years in prison for his involvement in a bribery scheme sends a strong message about the consequences of corruption. Judge Steven Seeger's words highlight the need for ethical reforms in Illinois and the importance of upholding public service values over personal gain.

To learn more, click on this link: https://repcabello.com/2023/10/21/weiss-sentenced-to-5-%c2%bd-years-for-bribery-scheme/