Investigations

Elected officials in Joliet get VIP perks at local casino they help regulate. Is this a fair deal or is it time to fold the practice?

Company wins piece of lucrative Cook County Jail contract after claiming disadvantaged minority status. But, the owner is a millionaire who doesn’t qualify for the designation.

Many municipalities allow firefighters and paramedics to work with a substantial amount of alcohol in their systems – a dangerous mix that puts public-safety employees, and the public, at risk.

Cook County has a rich political history, to say the least. But a new analysis finds its voters don’t have a lot of choices in local elections.

Fire district trustee votes on fire chief’s pay, benefits. Only problem: they live together.

Calumet City alderman takes film junket to Miami. Not only did taxpayers cover the tab, his record keeping leaves some curious questions.

Suburban mayors regulate liquor establishments in their towns. But many mayors also take campaign money from those businesses. Who’s really getting served here?

Cook County Recorder of Deeds taps family friend for well-paid government job – despite conviction for heist.