David E. Risley Appointed as Acting Legislative Inspector General in Illinois

David E. Risley, a former federal prosecutor, will temporarily assume the role of Illinois General Assembly’s top ethics watchdog. The office faced controversy regarding how complaints of sexual harassment against a former state lawmaker were addressed. The state’s Legislative Ethics Commission selected Risley to start as acting legislative inspector general on October 1, following Michael P. McCuskey’s retirement, scheduled for September 30. McCuskey, a former state and federal judge, faced scrutiny over his handling of the sexual harassment allegations made by a female lobbyist against former state Representative Harry Benton.

Risley’s appointment follows McCuskey’s resignation amid criticism of his investigation into Benton’s conduct. Risley, with over 30 years of experience in investigations and prosecutorial roles, had served as a certified inspector general and as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Central District of Illinois. State Representative Jeff Keicher highlighted Risley’s qualifications, stating that his extensive experience in ethical and legal matters makes him well-suited for the position.

The urgency to appoint Risley stems from public trust concerns following recent events. McCuskey’s report on July 31 labeled Benton as engaged in a pattern of sexual harassment involving the lobbyist and two other women, leading to Benton’s resignation on July 3. However, the lobbyist raised issues with McCuskey’s handling of the investigation, accusing him of breaching trust and investigative protocols.

The public’s trust has understandably been shaken, which is why the Commission has acted swiftly to fill the position to provide a seamless transition, Keicher stated. Mr. Risley’s extensive investigative and prosecutorial experience, as well as his experience with Illinois’ ethics laws, make him an excellent candidate to serve as Acting Legislative Inspector General.

Before McCuskey, Risley worked under Carol Pope, the former legislative inspector general. Pope resigned in 2021, citing insufficient authority to investigate legislators and the perceived weakness of new ethics provisions. During the process that led to McCuskey’s role in 2022, legislative Democrats had considered Risley for the position due to his experience, including his role as director of public safety policy for former Governor Bruce Rauner.

The Legislative Ethics Commission, comprised of an equal number of Democrats and Republicans, has the mandate to appoint an acting legislative inspector general until the General Assembly confirms a permanent replacement. This interim role carries the same authority as a permanent appointment and could last until June 30, 2028, if needed.

With Risley starting on October 1, the legislative leaders will form a search committee to identify potential permanent successors. This committee will assess candidates and forward their names to the Legislative Ethics Commission, which will then present them to the full legislature for consideration.