Cook County State’s Attorney Challenges Eligibility of Local Park District Commissioner

The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office is challenging the eligibility of Kenneth “Ken” Henderson, who was recently elected to serve as a Commissioner of the Harvey Park District.

Under Illinois Park District Code, 70 ILCS 1205/2-11, Henderson, who was elected on April 4, 2017, is not eligible to take the oath of office for commissioner as the result of having two separate felony convictions, one for an Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon charge in 2015 and also a Possession of a Controlled Substance charge in 2009. Henderson has not received a pardon for either conviction.

Henderson was notified by letter that he must provide information on his eligibility to hold this elected position no later than close of business on April 18, 2017 or further legal action may be taken to seek his removal from office.

The full letter can be viewed here. Due to the potential for future legal action, the SAO will not comment further on this matter.

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