David E. Risley, a former federal prosecutor, will temporarily assume the role of lead ethics watchdog for the Illinois General Assembly. This comes amid controversy concerning the handling of sexual harassment complaints against a former state lawmaker.
Appointment Details
Risley is set to start as acting legislative inspector general on October 1. He will replace Michael P. McCuskey, who retires on September 30. McCuskey’s retirement follows scrutiny over his management of a harassment case involving former state Representative Harry Benton.
According to state Representative Jeff Keicher, Risley brings more than three decades of experience in investigations and prosecutorial work. His background includes working as a certified inspector general and a former assistant U.S. attorney in Illinois.
Experience and Qualifications
Risley’s career includes time in the U.S. Regime Crimes Liaison Office, where he investigated crimes against humanity in Iraq. He has also served as the ethics officer for the Illinois Department of Transportation and as a legal and ethics adviser in the legislative inspector general’s office.
Keicher emphasized that Risley’s experience with Illinois’ ethics laws makes him well-suited for the role, aiming to restore public trust.
McCuskey’s Departure
McCuskey’s tenure ended in the midst of controversy surrounding a report he released on July 31. The report concluded that Benton engaged in a “pattern and practice” of harassment, leading to Benton’s resignation on July 3.
The lobbyist involved raised concerns over McCuskey’s handling of the investigation, accusing him of mischaracterizing her account and violating investigative norms.
House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch reportedly knew about a harassment complaint against Benton years earlier but did not take action.
Ethics Commission’s Role
The Legislative Ethics Commission, consisting of an equal number of Democratic and Republican lawmakers, appointed Risley. They have the authority to name an acting inspector general until the General Assembly confirms a permanent replacement. Risley’s term could last until June 30, 2028.
A search committee, to be appointed by top legislative leaders, will begin looking for a permanent successor to McCuskey post-Risley’s appointment.
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