Chicago Alderman Who Pledged to Clean Up Graft Was Indicted on Corruption Charges

Chicago Alderman Willie Cochran
Chicago Alderman Willie Cochran

By Steve Neavling
ticklethewire.com

Willie Cochran, a Chicago alderman who pledged to clean up corruption, was indicted Wednesday for allegedly stealing tens of thousands of dollars in charitable donations for poor children and seniors.

The 15-count indictment alleges Cochran used the funds to gamble and pay for his daughter’s college tuition, the Chicago Tribune reports. 

Cochran also is accused of sharking down a liquor store and taking a bribe in connection with a blight-busting federal program.

The 64-year-old South Side alderman was charged with 11 counts of wire fraud, two counts of extortion and two counts of bribery.

Cochran’s arraignment is scheduled for Dec. 23.