Ald. Moreno Charged With Insurance Fraud, Obstruction Of Justice

CHICAGO — Outgoing 1st Ward Ald. Proco 'Joe' Moreno faces two felony criminal charges, police said. The alderman was arrested Tuesday.

Police said Moreno lied to them earlier this year about the theft of his vehicle. The alderman told police his Audi had been stolen, but Moreno had loaned the car to a woman he had previously dated.

The woman was arrested and charged with criminal trespassing after police officers found her driving the vehicle. Her charges were eventually dropped, and an investigation was launched into Moreno's police report.

The alderman said the situation was a "miscommunication," and that he was having trouble trying to get a hold of the woman, according to a WGN report. But the woman's texts showed she was in regular communication with Moreno while she had the car.

The alderman has been charged with felony counts of insurance fraud in an amount between $10,000 and $100,000, and obstruction of justice for destroying evidence, police said.

Moreno lost his 1st ward seat earlier this year to challenger Daniel La Spata. Moreno's term ends next week.

Moreno is scheduled to appear in bond court Wednesday afternoon.

Related:

• Controversy Overshadows Issues In 1st Ward Aldermanic Election
• 1st Ward 2019 Aldermanic Election: Moreno Loses To La Spata