Illinois

Trekkie License Plate Puzzler: Tickets From Chicago Connected to Grandmother in New York Who Has No Car and Doesn't Drive

Apr

2025

Trekkie License Plate Puzzler: Tickets From Chicago Connected to Grandmother in New York Who Has No Car and Doesn't Drive

A peculiar case has emerged involving Beda Koorey, a 76-year-old woman from Long Island, New York, who has been receiving numerous traffic tickets linked to a license plate she no longer owns. The plate, NCC1701, associated with her late husband's love for "Star Trek," was destroyed in 2020, yet violations from across the country continue to arrive in her mailbox.

4 min read

Jury in State Sen. Emil Jones III Bribery Trial Hears Earful About His Corrupt Former Colleague Martin Sandoval

Apr

2025

Red Light Cameras

Jury in State Sen. Emil Jones III Bribery Trial Hears Earful About His Corrupt Former Colleague Martin Sandoval

The bribery trial of Illinois State Senator Emil Jones III is nearing its conclusion, with prosecutors expected to wrap up their case by presenting video-recorded interviews conducted with the FBI. This trial has drawn attention not only for the charges against Jones but also for its connections to former state senator Martin Sandoval, who has been implicated in corruption.

3 min read

At Jones Trial, Jury Hears Lawmaker Bringing Colleague Into Fold of "‘Personal Benefits"

Apr

2025

Red Light Cameras

At Jones Trial, Jury Hears Lawmaker Bringing Colleague Into Fold of "‘Personal Benefits"

The bribery trial of Illinois State Senator Emil Jones III has garnered significant attention as jurors hear FBI recordings implicating him in corrupt dealings involving red-light camera contracts. The trial highlights the intersection of politics and corruption, raising questions about accountability among public officials.

3 min read

Ex-Red-Light Camera Company Exec Takes Stand in Bribery Trial

Apr

2025

Red Light Cameras

Ex-Red-Light Camera Company Exec Takes Stand in Bribery Trial

In a high-profile bribery trial a co-founder of SafeSpeed LLC, testified against Illinois State Senator Emil Jones III, alleging that the company engaged in corrupt practices to influence lawmakers. His cooperation with federal authorities has brought to light a troubling narrative of political corruption involving campaign contributions, gifts, and secretive dealings.

3 min read

Appellate Court Backs IDOT in Revoking Oakbrook Terrace Red-Light Cameras; City Pondering Appeal

Apr

2025

Red Light Cameras

Appellate Court Backs IDOT in Revoking Oakbrook Terrace Red-Light Cameras; City Pondering Appeal

An Illinois appellate court has upheld the Illinois Department of Transportation's (IDOT) authority to revoke the permit for red-light cameras in Oakbrook Terrace, a decision that has significant implications for traffic enforcement and public safety in the area. The ruling, which follows a previous judgment from a DuPage County court, highlights the city's failure to comply with reporting requirements mandated by IDOT.

4 min read

Trial Begins for State Senator Accused of Taking Bribes From Red-Light Camera Company

Apr

2025

Red Light Cameras

Trial Begins for State Senator Accused of Taking Bribes From Red-Light Camera Company

The federal bribery trial of Illinois State Senator Emil Jones III commenced this week, centering on allegations that he accepted bribes from a red-light camera company executive. This trial is part of a broader investigation into corruption in Illinois politics, and it marks the first case related to the red-light camera industry to be heard by a jury.

4 min read

The 50 New Chicago Speed Cameras Are All About Cash Not Safety

Mar

2025

Speed Cameras

The 50 New Chicago Speed Cameras Are All About Cash Not Safety

The recent decision by the city of Chicago to install 50 new speed cameras has sparked significant debate, with critics arguing that the initiative prioritizes revenue generation over public safety. This editorial from the Chicago Tribune contends that the cameras are primarily a financial strategy designed to help balance the city's budget rather than a genuine effort to enhance road safety.

4 min read

"You Can Raise Me Five Grand": New Details Emerge in Bribery Case Against State Sen

Feb

2025

Red Light Cameras

"You Can Raise Me Five Grand": New Details Emerge in Bribery Case Against State Sen

A State Senator is facing serious bribery charges stemming from a 2019 dinner with Omar Maani, an executive from SafeSpeed LLC, a company involved in red-light camera operations. Allegations suggest that Jones solicited financial benefits in exchange for legislative favor regarding automated traffic enforcement systems. As the trial date approaches, new revelations and recordings have emerged, shedding light on the intricate details of the case.

4 min read

Chicago Drivers Face Lower Speed Limit, More Cameras

Dec

2024

Speed Cameras

Chicago Drivers Face Lower Speed Limit, More Cameras

Chicago's speed camera program has reported a significant decrease in ticket revenue, amounting to $28 million less in fines compared to the same period in 2023. This decline has prompted city officials to consider lowering the speed limit and increasing the number of speed cameras as potential solutions to boost revenue amid a looming budget deficit.

4 min read