On the 21st: We talked with the Chicago Tribune reporter who led the investigation into the pork industry in Illinois, and heard a response from the industry. Plus, we got an update on what's going on with politics in Illinois.
Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert is asking for probation in his hush-money case. His lawyers cite the former Illinois congressman's health and say in a new court filing that he's already paid a high price. They note Hastert's "fall from grace has been swift and devastating." The Chicago Tribune Thursday cited unidentified law enforcement sources as saying at least four people have made "credible allegations of sexual abuse.'
An outside firmed hired by the University of Illinois to investigation charges of racism and abusive behavior in the women's basketball program at Urbana found no evidence of wrongdoing, but Chancellor Phyllis Wise says they will implement its recommendations on ways for student-athletes to report concerns and relations between coaches and parents.
In the wake of allegations from a former U of I player, two Chicago Tribune reporters reached out to every other one during coach Tim Beckman's era at the school. Of the 50 who responded, many alumni were critical, and current players came to Beckman's defense.
Chicago Tribune sports reporter Shannon Ryan discusses the lawsuit filed by the former U of I athletes, as well as allegations made by former U of I football and soccer players.
