Illinois Quick Hits: Illinois gains population for third straight year

Illinois Quick Hits: Illinois gains population for third straight year

January 27, 2026/
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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – According to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Illinois’ population has risen for the third straight year.

Data released on Tuesday showed Illinois with an estimated 12,719,141 people on July 1, 2025, up from 12,703,033 the previous year.

The state’s number is 16,108 higher than a year ago but 76,207 lower than it was in 2020.

SEXUAL EXPLOITATION SENTENCE

A Park Forest man has been sentenced to 48 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography.

Prosecutors say Tercalo E. Thomas, 35, enticed, persuaded and used a prepubescent minor to engage in illegal sexual conduct.

Thomas allegedly recorded the conduct and trafficked the images as barter to collect more than 1,500 images of child sex abuse.

JUDICIAL AGENDA

The Illinois Judicial Conference has unveiled its 2026-2028 strategic agenda for the state’s judicial branch.

Chief Justice P. Scott Neville Jr. said the agenda focuses on removing barriers that prevent litigants from fully participating in the legal system.

The IJC consists of 15 judges and 14 non-judges with the chief justice serving as chair.

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