By Jeff Coen | Tribune reporter
A tow-truck driver slipping cash to a police officer to get ahead in the business probably isn't new in Chicago, but one who wears a wire to catch a cop in the act of taking a bribe is a little rarer.
That's exactly what happened to Michael Ciancio, a former Chicago police officer who pleaded guilty Wednesday to taking money from a driver who was working undercover with the FBI.
Ciancio, who was charged last summer, admitted to pocketing about $100 a car.
Ciancio entered a "blind" plea—without making a deal with prosecutors—before U.S. District Judge John Darrah. A 21-year veteran who worked in the Jefferson Park District, Ciancio was accused of steering a favored company to accident scenes and thwarting other businesses, earning $600 and $800 a week. He resigned this month.
An ongoing investigation into similar bribery has seen federal authorities investigate at least five police districts in Chicago.
Ciancio's lawyer, Joseph Roddy, said his client made a terrible mistake and wanted to put the case behind him.
"We've all made mistakes," Roddy said. "He just wants out and to go on with his life."
Ciancio pleaded guilty to attempted extortion, which carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, but he likely faces a far less severe sentence. Sentencing is set for May 13.
jcoen@tribune.com
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