Prosecutor to review ruckus between state senators

SPRINGFIELD — Investigators looking into a confrontation between two state lawmakers said Thursday that the police report hasn’t been made public because it’s being sent to the local prosecutor, who will decide whether any legal action is required.

The incident took place Tuesday on the Illinois Senate floor after a heated debate when Sen. Mike Jacobs, a Democrat from East Moline, approached Republican Sen. Kyle McCarter of Lebanon. McCarter claims Jacobs cursed at him and punched him in the chest. McCarter wants to press charges.

State Capitol Police investigated, and a spokesman said Thursday that the police report isn’t being made public because it now goes to Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser. Milhiser said Thursday afternoon that he didn’t yet have the report.

Milhiser, a Republican, said it’s difficult to say how long it would take to make a decision on whether criminal charges are justified because it largely depends on what is in the police report. Prosecutors must decide whether the case requires additional investigation or witness interviews.

The incident stemmed from legislative debate on Jacobs’ legislation to allow power companies such as ComEd to raise rates to fund a modernization of the power grid.

McCarter pointed out that Jacobs’ father was a lobbyist for ComEd while his son sponsored legislation favorable to the company.

The Senate approved the bill, but Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn has vowed to veto it.