Former Illinois Mayor Free After Year in Prison for Insurance Scheme

A former suburban Chicago mayor is free after serving a year in prison in an insurance kickback scheme.

Nicholas Blase spent nearly a half-century as the mayor of Niles before resigning and pleading guilty to the fraud charges.

Blase told the Chicago Tribune he is anxious to become involved in community activities, though he is barred from holding elective office.

In January 2010, Blase admitted using his office for years to steer business to a friend’s insurance agency, in turn money was funneled to him through a dummy company.

Prosecutors said Blase, who was mayor of Niles for 47 years, pocketed more than $400,000.

The 87-year-old Blase tells the Tribune life in prison was surprisingly “pleasant,” with the minimum-security facility giving him time to read and exercise.