Illinois quick hits: Former Chicago schools dean sentenced for sexual assault
Former Chicago schools dean sentenced for sexual assault
A former Chicago public school dean has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for sexually assaulting a student over a two-year period.
CWB Chicago reports that Brian Crowder, 43, posed as the victim’s stepfather twice to sign consent forms for her to have abortions.
Prosecutors say Crowder began grooming the girl when he was dean of Greater Lawndale High School for Social Justice.
Tracy running for U.S. Senate
Former Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy has announced that he is running for U.S. Senate in 2026.
Tracy released a statement Wednesday morning and said his top priority in Washington would be to lower costs for working families.
Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announced in April that he would not seek reelection.
Small business optimism index
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 1.7 points in July to 100.3, slightly above the 52-year average of 98.
National Federation of Independent Business Illinois State Director Noah Finley said small business owners are feeling more optimistic after Congress made the Small Business Deduction permanent, but there is uncertainty in Illinois, where the General Assembly is considering additional tax hikes.
Mostly Sunny
Latest News Stories
Executive Committee: Relaxes Rules for Retiring Employee Proclamations
Lobbyist Updates: State Session Resumes; Transit Safety Concerns Raised
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Board Finance Committee for January 6, 2026
Music, drama teacher sues Catholic HS over ‘anti-gay’ discrimination
Illinois Quick Hits: IDPH accountability officer fired
Trump: Chicago crime is down in spite of ‘incompetent’ Pritzker
‘Put politics aside’ to support no tax on tips, Illinois Democrat says
Frankfort Village Board Reduces C-1 Liquor Licenses, Approves New Venue
Pritzker: State will not build stadium for Bears
Capital Imp Committee: Facilities Director Reports on VAC Progress and Critical Health Department Elevator Repairs
‘Good Food For All’ Initiative Proposes Local Agricultural Asset Mapping for Will County
Public Works Committee Advances $3.2 Million Engineering Contract for Mills Road Reconstruction
Board Members Debate “Commitment to Truth” in Media Resolution