During the third day of former Illinois State Senator William Samuel McCann Jr.’s trial before U.S. District Judge Colleen Lawless, McCann pleaded guilty to nine counts of wire fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion related to his alleged misuse of campaign funds.
McCann admitted to converting over $200,000 in campaign contributions for personal expenses, concealing his actions from donors and authorities. Following his guilty plea, McCann requested release to home confinement pending sentencing, but the Court ordered him detained due to concerns raised by a video McCann recorded prior to his detainment.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 20, 2024, with each wire fraud and money laundering count carrying a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, and tax evasion up to 5 years.
McCann, who served as an Illinois State Senator, misused campaign funds for personal expenses including vehicles, mortgage payments, and recreational vehicles. He also concealed his ownership of rental vehicles, used campaign funds to pay off personal loans, and failed to report income on his tax returns.
The charges stem from an investigation by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy A. Bass prosecuting the case.
By FCCT Editorial Team
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