Corruption in local government is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on communities. In this episode, Janelle and Vicky explore the different ways that corruption can manifest itself at the local level, and look at two prime examples of what happens when accountability is tossed out the window.

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Research links below!:

Politico - "She Stole $54 Million From Her Town. Then Something Unexpected Happened."
United States Attorney's Office: Northern District of Illinois - "Former Dixon Comptroller Rita Crundwell Sentenced To Nearly 20 Years In Federal Prison For $53.7 Million Theft From City"
All the Queens Horses (Documentary)
Fraud Magazine - "Small town, huge fraud, insightful documentary"
23WIFR - "Why do government and public officials steal so often?"
Chicago Tribune - "Photos: Rita Crundwell case"

Chicago Tribune - "Federal agents raid Springfield, Cicero offices of Illinois Sen. Martin Sandoval, source says"
Chicago Tribune - "Guilty plea lays bare ex-state Sen. Martin Sandoval's greed in red-light camera bribery scheme. 'So why don't I get that offer?'"
United States District Court: Northern District of Illinois - "United States of America v. Martin A. Sandoval Plea Agreement"
Reason - "Chicago's Red Light Cameras Keep Fueling Corruption Scandals"
Chicago Tribune - "Red-light camera officials caught on FBI wire talking about giving perks to suburban mayor, unsealed document shows"
AP News - "Chicago state senator indicted in red-light camera scandal"
abc20 - "Illinois senator indicted in red-light camera scandal"
Chicago Tribune - "Sandoval's bait-and-switch"
Chicago Sun-Times - "Ex-State Sen. Martin Sandoval, snared in political corruption investigation, dies of coronavirus: attorney"