CHICAGO, IL – A former executive at Illinois’ largest power company faced sentencing today in a federal court for her involvement in a corruption scheme designed to influence legislative decisions. The court heard that Anne Pramaggiore, once the CEO of Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), played a pivotal role in a conspiracy to sway former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan.
The federal judge, Manish Shah, described the scheme as both secretive and sophisticated, noting that Pramaggiore had the opportunity to halt the misconduct but chose not to. Despite facing a potential six-year sentence, she was given two years.
Pramaggiore’s actions were part of a broader effort to ensure favorable legislative outcomes for ComEd. The scheme involved paying Madigan’s allies $1.3 million over eight years for jobs that were largely non-existent. This arrangement secured beneficial treatment for the power company.
Although Pramaggiore maintains her innocence, the judge emphasized her integral role in the long-running conspiracy. Her spokesperson expressed disappointment with the sentence and announced plans to appeal the verdict through the Seventh Circuit Court and potentially the Supreme Court.
Pramaggiore was identified as one of the “ComEd Four,” a group convicted in 2023 for their involvement in the nearly decade-long bribery scheme. Other key figures include ComEd lobbyist John Hooker, who received an 18-month sentence, and Michael McClain, a confidant of Madigan, who awaits sentencing.
Madigan, once the longest-serving House Speaker in U.S. history, was separately sentenced to seven and a half years in prison. He has requested a delay in his sentence as he pursues an appeal.
The court was presented with over 170 letters highlighting Pramaggiore’s positive contributions and leadership. Despite her past achievements, the judge remarked on the duality of her character, acknowledging her as both an inspiring leader and a participant in corporate wrongdoing.