Arlington Heights man steps down as top state watchdog
One of Illinois' top watchdogs, Executive Inspector General Ricardo Meza of Arlington Heights, stepped down Wednesday to join the Chicago law firm Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, Pq.C.
Meza was initially appointed to his position by then-Gov. Pat Quinn in 2010 and was reappointed in 2013. His term would have expired in 2018.
During his time in the post, Meza investigated ethics violations, fraud, waste, abuse and misconduct in Illinois government.
Gov. Bruce Rauner has not chosen a replacement for Meza, whose last day is April 17.
“The administration is conducting the search for a new inspector general,” Rauner spokeswoman Catherine Kelly said.
Greensfelder announced the addition of Meza will expand the firm's expertise in government interaction and white collar crime and corporate compliance.
“I am very proud of the work and successes during my tenure with the OEIG, and my decision to leave the office was motivated entirely by my desire to move on to the next chapter in my career and return to litigation work,” Meza said in a statement.
Meza previously served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the United States Attorney's Office and worked as Midwest regional counsel for the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
“Our clients in the private sector will benefit greatly from the knowledge and experience that Ricardo brings from his many years leading internal investigations of wrongdoing and abuses in the state government,” said Greensfelder Managing Officer David Goodman.