Tag

Edward Burke

All articles tagged with #edward burke

crime2 years ago

Jury Deliberations Continue in Ed Burke Corruption Trial

Jurors in the corruption trial of former Chicago Alderman Edward Burke completed their first full day of deliberations without reaching a verdict. The jury sent three notes to the judge, including one asking for clarification on a count charging co-defendant Charles Cui. The jury also asked whether Amtrak employees are considered public officers. Meanwhile, one of Burke's co-defendants, Peter Andrews Jr., was hospitalized, but his condition was not disclosed. Deliberations are expected to continue for several more days. Burke is facing 14 counts, including racketeering and federal program bribery, while Andrews and Cui face multiple charges as well.

politics2 years ago

"Burger King Owner Testifies on Alleged Shakedown in Ed Burke Trial"

Shoukat Dhanani, the owner of a Burger King restaurant in Chicago, testified in court that he had a "gut feeling" that Ald. Edward Burke shut down the remodeling of his restaurant because Dhanani did not respond about Burke's property tax business. Prosecutors played secretly recorded conversations between Burke and his allies, revealing their attempts to strong-arm business for Burke's private property tax law firm. Burke's defense argues that the Dhananis misread the situation and were confused about needing a driveway permit. Dhanani also testified that his company never steered any work to Burke's firm.

crime2 years ago

Field Museum Testimony Reveals Perceived Threat in Ed Burke Trial

Former Alderman Edward Burke is on trial for alleged extortion, and jurors heard testimony from a Field Museum worker who described a phone call with Burke as a perceived threat. The call took place after the museum considered a fee increase and failed to secure an internship for the daughter of a former alderman. The worker testified that Burke warned her the proposal would go nowhere if he called the president of the Park Board. The trial was briefly halted when one of the judge's therapy dogs became sick after a juror gave it a bag of treats.

politics2 years ago

Ed Burke Trial: Opening Statements and Witness Testimony Unveiled

The corruption trial of former Chicago Alderman Edward Burke resumed with political science professor Constance Mixon providing a crash course on the intricacies of Chicago politics. Mixon explained the history and makeup of the Chicago City Council, the parliamentary procedures, and the broad powers held by aldermen like Burke. She emphasized Burke's long-standing influence as the longest-serving member of the council and chair of the Finance Committee. The defense questioned Mixon about the power dynamics between Burke and former Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Burke is facing charges of racketeering, bribery, extortion, and unlawful activity, while two co-defendants are also on trial.

politics2 years ago

"Corruption Trial of Ex-Ald. Ed Burke Reveals Questionable Campaign Fund Payments"

Former Chicago Alderman Edward Burke, who is set to go on trial for federal racketeering charges, has used campaign funds to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in "consulting" fees to one of his co-defendants, Peter Andrews Jr. Andrews, who is also charged in the case, used the funds to cover his legal fees. While campaign funds can be used for legal costs, it is unusual to see funds sent to another co-defendant and classified as "consulting." Burke's campaign fund has also sent $220,000 directly to Andrews for "consulting" since Burke's office was raided five years ago. Both Burke and Andrews have pleaded not guilty to the charges.