Illinois Democrat Appeals Conviction

CHICAGO –  A former Illinois House Speaker is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review his corruption conviction.  Michael Madigan was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison, he argues jurors received improper instructions and that the evidence against him did not prove a crime was committed.  Prosecutors say Madigan used his political influence to benefit himself and allies, including a scheme involving Commonwealth Edison that allegedly funneled millions of dollars to his associates.  The Supreme Court will decide whether to take up the case after its summer recess, but the justices reject most appeals they receive.