A mistrial was declared today in the trial of former AT&T Illinois President Paul La Schiazza, accused of bribing a powerful state lawmaker's ally to secure legislation beneficial to AT&T's business. La Schiazza had faced charges of bribery and conspiracy, among others, relating to efforts to influence former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan.
"The jury reported they have reached an impasse and cannot reach a unanimous verdict. For the reasons stated on the record, the court declares a mistrial," US District Judge Robert Gettleman wrote in an order today in the Northern District of Illinois.
AT&T had already agreed to pay a $23 million fine in 2022 to settle a federal criminal investigation into the alleged misconduct. The company admitted to arranging payments totaling $22,500 to an ally of Madigan in 2017, in an effort to influence legislation that would terminate AT&T Illinois' obligation to provide landline services to all Illinois residents, according to their deferred prosecution agreement.
The mistrial comes as Madigan is scheduled to stand trial on federal racketeering and bribery charges in October. During La Schiazza's trial, the jury questioned whether a bribe required only "intent" without any actual exchange, leading Judge Gettleman to reexplain the law's requirements before the jury ultimately declared itself deadlocked. The jury instructions ran 46 pages and defined bribery as giving or agreeing to give something of value with corrupt intent to influence or reward a state government agent in exchange for an official act.
La Schiazza had described the arrangement with Madigan internally as "the friends and family plan" in an email, according to the prosecution. While he did not testify, the prosecution argued that his actions tainted the legislative process. The defense countered that the legislation had been a result of "legitimate, tireless hard work."
The next steps for La Schiazza remain uncertain, though a retrial is a possibility. Any retrial would likely take place post-Madigan’s trial, which starts early next month, according to the Chicago Tribune’s report.
For additional background, the case’s details and procedural history can be accessed on Ars Technica.