A former Democratic member of the Illinois House who once represented Springfield was sentenced Friday to a year and a day in federal prison for doing political and private business while employed by Secretary of State Jesse White.
Michael Curran, 58, who lives in Highland Park, was ordered to pay $67,435 in restitution for misusing his position at the secretary of state’s office. He already has paid more than $16,500.
Curran served as director of the Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Unit in White’s office from July 1, 1999, through April 15, 2002, but he admitted he did not work there full time.
When he was supposed to be doing his state job, he worked on mayoral campaigns in unidentified communities. He also worked as a consultant for a variety of businesses, prosecutors said.
“The large majority of public servants are law-abiding, but this case shows that those who are not will receive appropriate punishment,” said U.S. Atty. Jan Miller.
More Top Picks How To Paint Kitchen Cabinets
The government maintained Curran instructed subordinates to cover for his absences and to respond to e-mails sent to him. He filed 25 false travel vouchers, used state office equipment for his business and devoted a substantial amount of state time from January 2001 to April 2002 on campaigns, officials said.
He pleaded guilty to mail fraud in April.
Curran, who once ran unsuccessfully for mayor of Springfield, was in the House for 12 years.