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.
Latest News Stories
WATCH: Amid criticism, Pritzker defends using expletive to tell Trump where to go
New Lenox Fire District to Hire EMTs to Combat Paramedic Shortage
Election integrity advocates urge reform after Illinois scores low in global survey
WATCH: Pritzker’s rhetoric criticized; tax amnesty program; status of Guard lawsuit
Illinois quick hits: Pritzker uses expletive with teachers union; Paprocki reacts to assisted suicide bill
New Lenox D122 Board Approves $74.1M Budget for 2025-26 School Year
New Lenox Park District Advances $1.5 Million Bond Plan for Playground Overhauls and Future Projects
Appeals court: IT firm can’t make insurer foot bill for $28M face scan deal
Illinois soybean farmers face uncertainty amid MAHA push against seed oils
Crete Township ‘Tiny Home’ Owner Appeals Permit Denial
Illinois quick hits: Pritzker to sign tax, toll increases to bail out transit
Trump slices China fentanyl tariff in half following meeting with Xi