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Riverdale Mayor Lawrence Jackson Convicted, Office Declared Vacant Under State Law

State law forces a vacancy, prompting trustees to name an interim leader before a 2027 election.

Overview

  • A federal jury on Wednesday found Jackson guilty of one count of perjury and one count of obstruction of justice.
  • The case centered on alleged false testimony during a 2021 deposition tied to Tri-State Disposal’s 2018 lawsuit over Riverdale’s trash contracts.
  • Prosecutors presented texts and emails to argue Jackson concealed a close operational and financial relationship with businessman James Bracken linked to Centennial Holdings.
  • Sentencing has not been scheduled, and the statutory maximum penalties total up to 25 years in prison.
  • Following the verdict, Riverdale’s mayoral seat is deemed vacant under Illinois law, with trustees to appoint an acting mayor and a special election set for April 2027.