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Tollway watchdog named inspector general

With a full load of investigations, including many that end up requiring disciplinary action, Illinois tollway watchdog Jim Wagner said it's time to expand his unit.

Now Wagner will get a chance to see that request through after Gov. Pat Quinn appointed him as Illinois State Toll Highway Authority inspector general Monday.

The decision was expected as Wagner, a former FBI agent and Chicago Crime Commissioner chief, has served as tollway general manager of investigations and audit since January. Presuming confirmation by a Senate majority, the five-year appointment becomes official Jan. 1. Quinn's action was necessary after a new law was enacted that took responsibility for picking an IG away from tollway board directors.

Wagner's department includes himself and one investigator. He wants to add three more investigators, explaining his office has handled about 75 cases so far, half of which are resolved. Of those closed cases, a majority were referred to tollway administration for discipline, several were passed on to law enforcement and a few resulted in dismissals, he said.

His investigations have included looking into allegations of fraud, corruption, theft and misuse of tollway property. Now Wagner said he wants to dig deeper into tollway contracts to ensure there's no waste.

Executive Director Kristi Lafleur said she will back Wagner's request for more staff.

“We will work with him to make sure he has the resources he needs to follow up on any allegations, she said.

Wagner encouraged anyone with concerns about misconduct to contact his office. “We do hear from the public from time to time and that's great, he said.