Former Federal Prosecutor to Serve as Illinois’ Acting Ethics Watchdog

David E. Risley, a former federal prosecutor, will temporarily assume the role of Illinois General Assembly’s top ethics watchdog. He steps into an office mired in controversy over the handling of sexual harassment complaints involving a former state lawmaker. Risley, chosen by the Legislative Ethics Commission, begins as acting legislative inspector general on October 1, following the retirement of Michael P. McCuskey on September 30.

McCuskey, a former state and federal judge, faced scrutiny regarding his investigation into allegations against former state Rep. Harry Benton, accused of sexual harassment by a lobbyist and two other women. The lobbyist criticized McCuskey for misrepresenting her account and breaching investigative norms during the inquiry.

State Rep. Jeff Keicher, a Republican from Sycamore and chair of the ethics commission, highlighted Risley’s extensive experience, spanning more than 30 years in investigative and prosecutorial roles. Risley has served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Central District of Illinois, in the U.S. Regime Crimes Liaison Office, and as ethics adviser in the legislative inspector general’s office.

“The public’s trust has understandably been shaken by recent events, which is why the Commission has acted swiftly to fill the position to provide a seamless transition,” Keicher stated.

Controversy surrounding sexual harassment at the Illinois State Capitol intensified following McCuskey’s report, which detailed Benton’s “pattern and practice” of harassment. Benton resigned from the Illinois House on July 3, 2026.

Risley previously worked under Carol Pope during her term as legislative inspector general. Pope resigned in 2021, citing insufficient investigatory authority and weak new ethics provisions. The process leading to McCuskey’s 2022 appointment initially saw legislative Democrats favor Risley.

The bipartisan Legislative Ethics Commission, composed of four Democratic and four Republican lawmakers, appoints an acting legislative inspector general until a permanent replacement is confirmed. Risley’s role carries the same authority as a permanent inspector general. He could serve until the current term expires on June 30, 2028.

Once Risley takes office, the four top legislative leaders will appoint representatives to a search committee evaluating candidates for McCuskey’s permanent successor. The committee’s selections will move to the commission, then to the full legislature for approval.