Connections

Chicago Alderman Convicted of Racketeering and Bribery Escapes Discipline Due to Powerful Connections

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Chicago, IL – Former attorney and Alderman Ed Burke, who was convicted of racketeering, bribery, and attempted extortion, is avoiding suspension despite his charges. The Illinois Supreme Court has yet to act on a petition for an interim suspension, as a majority of the court’s justices have recused themselves from the case. This has brought attention to the influence and power that the Burke family has had in the Illinois judiciary. Burke’s crimes involved a city hall shakedown scheme to benefit his law firm, Klafter & Burke. He allegedly blocked permits for companies that did … Read more

Bernard Jolles: From Communist Party Connections to Prominent Portland Attorney – A Life of Turbulence and Triumph

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PORTLAND, Ore. – Bernard Jolles, a prominent Portland attorney known for his long law career and early affiliation with the Communist Party, passed away at the age of 95. Jolles’ life journey, which began in Brooklyn in 1928, was marked by political activism and perseverance. Born to Polish immigrant parents, Jolles grew up in a Jewish neighborhood but did not adhere to religious practices. His father, though never a member of the Communist Party, sympathized with the Soviets’ policy and fought against oppression. This upbringing shaped Jolles’ political views from a young age. Despite academic … Read more