CHICAGO The federal corruption trial of former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan resumes Wednesday, with closing arguments in the landmark case set to begin.

Madigan is accused of coordinating a criminal conspiracy – that stretched across a decade and through nearly every level of government under his power and influence. 

A jury of eight women and four men will decide the fate of the now 82-year-old nicknamed ‘The Velvet Hammer.’ Madigan, the longest-serving state House Speaker in American history, held his seat for 50 years and denies any wrongdoing. 

The original 106 page 22 count indictment accused the once-powerful leader of acting like an organized crime boss, calling his network “The Madigan Enterprise.” The US Attorney’s Office charged him with racketeering and bribery, outlining alleged crimes they say were intended to “preserve and enhance Madigan’s political power and financial well-being.” 

VIDEO: Prosecution, defense rest in Michael Madigan’s federal corruption trial

Much of the government’s evidence came from former Chicago alderman turned government mole Danny Solis, who secretly taped conversations with Madigan. 

In the closing stages of his own defense, Madigan made headlines when he chose to testify. 

By the numbers, the trial has lasted nearly three months and included testimony from almost 60 witnesses. The trial included about 150 wiretapped calls and undercover videos, including one in which Madigan and his co-defendant Michael McClain shared a laugh about all the money their associates made for what were essentially no-show jobs at ComEd.

Closing arguments are expected to last at least three days, meaning it could be next week before the jury begins to deliberate the fate of one of the most powerful politicians in Illinois history.