It was surprising, but good to learn that former Illinois caregiver Sandra Gayle received jail time for financial exploitation of an elderly woman through abusing a power of attorney.

Others in the state, particularly Cook County, still seem to be struggling with courts viewed as corrupt and abusive toward those drawn into the Illinois legal system.   (Post #1, Post #2, Post #3)  Here’s what they have to say regarding today’s presentation of a prestigious award to a Cook County judge:

Victims and their Families are legion in Timothy Evans’ Cook County court ‘system.’ We are compelled to stay silent no longer.   We believe, in many ways, Illinois judicial corruption patterns the federal corruption that exists.

This Rehnquist award for ‘judicial excellence, integrity, fairness and the highest level of professional ethics’ has gone to a leader of court agents who threaten and harass justice-seekers in Cook County. Those who call serious judicial problems to Evans’ attention are advised he is ‘administrative only.’ Nothing changes. The ‘network’ of abuse and exploitation continues unchecked.

Disabled, elderly and other vulnerable individuals are ensnared in court controlled guardianships, their resources pillaged. Victims with average life savings, and millionaires alike, are being forced to the public doles. Cook County circuit courts rob these victims and their advocates of justice, human rights, dignity and financial security. Evans’ vast network, including ‘support services,’ stop at nothing to transfer victims’ entire wealth to their own pockets and political ends. Insatiable greed, abuse of judicial power and unlimited intimidation are rife, rewarded and enabled on Evans’ watch - for this Timothy Evans is honored.