Ex-Alderman Edward Vrdolyak Pleads Not Guilty to Tax Evasion

CHICAGO, IL — Former Alderman Edward Vrdolyak pleaded not guilty Tuesday to tax evasion and impeding an IRS investigation, charges stemming from accusations that the politician wrongly benefitted a $9.2 billion settlement between Illinois and the tobacco companies in the late 1990s, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The charges, which had been filed Nov. 3, were revealed last week after the indictment against Vrdolyak was unsealed.

Vrdolyak, who picked up his "Fast Eddie" nickname thanks to his reputation of political wheeling and dealing during his City Council days, is accused of pocketing around $65 million from the tobacco case despite never working on it, the Tribune reports. The payout was part of a behind-the-scenes agreement worked out by the ex-alderman and other attorneys, the report added.

RELATED: Ex-Alderman 'Fast Eddie' Vrdolyak Accused of Tax Evasion: Indictment

Vrdolyak faces a maximum of five years in prison if convicted of the most serious charge, according to the report.

This isn't the first time Vrdolyak has faced federal criminal charges. In 2007, a grand jury indicted Vrdolyak on bribery and mail and wire fraud charges. He was sentenced to 10 months in prision in 2010 after hammering out a deal with prosecutors and pleading guilty to a lesser charge.

More via the Chicago Tribune

Edward Vrdolyak (photo via Patch archive)

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