Illinois Quick Hits: OIG recommends firing 5 employees

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – The Chicago Office of Inspector General says its work in the fourth quarter of 2025 led to the return of $180,000 in illegal campaign contributions to candidates for city office, more than the OIG has reported in any other quarter.

The office’s quarterly report also included investigations that led to recommended termination for five city employees.

One of the five allegedly spent hours of city time at a social club. Another was accused of fabricating an on-duty injury to obtain worker’ compensation.

CWB TOW TRUCK DRIVER

A Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation employee is accused of using his position as a city tow truck driver to help thieves steal multiple vehicles.

Henry Solomon Jr., 43, is charged with vehicle theft conspiracy, official misconduct and theft. CWB Chicago reports that prosecutors did not seek to detain Solomon, who is scheduled to appear in court March 12.

DRUG COURTS

Six rural drug courts in Illinois will be receiving federal funds to enhance existing programs.

The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine awarded $45,000 to courts in Clinton, Hancock, Jackson, Montgomery, Richland and Whiteside counties.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is funding the initiative through an opioid response grant to the Illinois Department of Human Services.