Illinois quick hits: 'Shot clock' considered in Madigan jury selection

'Shot clock' considered in Madigan jury selection

At the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, Judge John Robert Blakey has told prosecutors and defense attorneys that he might implement a “shot clock” when they question witnesses during the trial.

The judge made the comments Thursday morning before starting a sixth day of jury selection. Attorneys did not agree to add any new jurors Tuesday or Wednesday as the questioning process slowed considerably. Madigan, along with co-defendant Michael McClain, is charged with bribery, racketeering and official misconduct.

Billboards hacked with anti-Israel message

Multiple electronic billboards in a Chicago suburb were hacked, displaying messages about Israel that many described as "anti-Semitic" on Wednesday.

One of the billboards read, "DEATH TO ISRAEL." In both, a Palestinian flag was used as the background.

Northbrook police launched an investigation and quickly determined the messages were not authorized by the billboards owner, indicating they were the work of hackers.

Migrant ballot question

Effingham County residents are getting the chance to weigh in on the controversial topic of illegal immigration. A non-binding referendum will be on the November ballot concerning tax dollars spent on services for undocumented migrants. Two local residents pushed for the ballot question, which asks voters if they are in favor of tax dollars going toward migrants who enter the country illegally and are living in Effingham County.