$260.8 million proposed for 17 people wrongfully convicted in Chicago — after 383 years lost

Chicago is moving to approve a $260.8 million settlement covering 16 wrongful-conviction lawsuits tied to investigations by former police detective Reynaldo Guevara. All 17 plaintiffs had their convictions vacated and the charges dismissed; together they spent more than 383 years behind bars. The money would be paid over two years starting in 2027, and city attorneys estimate settling now could also save $300 million to $400 million in future legal fees. The City Council's finance committee takes it up Monday, with a full council vote possible on Oct. 14.