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McCook Today
By the People, for the People
Contractor admits to bribing McCook mayor, acting as bag man for other extortion payments
Simo 'Sam' Krneta pleaded guilty to tax evasion related to bribery and extortion scheme with former McCook mayor Jeff Tobolski
Published on Feb. 19, 2026
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A suburban contractor named Simo 'Sam' Krneta admitted in federal court that he paid bribes to former McCook Mayor Jeff Tobolski in exchange for village contracts over an 8-year period. Krneta also acted as Tobolski's 'bag man', collecting about $40,000 in bribe and extortion payments from others doing business with McCook and keeping $16,000 for himself. Krneta pleaded guilty to filing a false tax return in 2017 and agreed to pay $59,000 in restitution.
Why it matters
This case is part of a broader corruption investigation into the western suburbs of Chicago that has brought down over a dozen public officials and businessmen. It highlights the pervasive culture of bribery and extortion that has plagued some local governments, undermining public trust and the integrity of the contracting process.
The details
According to his plea agreement, Krneta agreed to kick back 5% of any work billed to McCook to Tobolski in 2011 in exchange for the mayor's help landing new business. Over about 8 years, Krneta paid Tobolski around $17,500. Krneta also collected $40,000 in bribe and extortion payments on Tobolski's behalf from others doing business with McCook, keeping $16,000 for himself. Krneta underreported his income on tax returns for several years, omitting the bribe payments.
- Krneta's company, Renovation Associates, did many projects for McCook while Tobolski was mayor, from around 2011 to 2019.
- Krneta pleaded guilty in federal court on February 17, 2026.
- Krneta is scheduled to be sentenced on August 13, 2026.
The players
Simo 'Sam' Krneta
A 68-year-old former contractor from La Grange Park, Illinois who now lives in Albany, New York. Krneta pleaded guilty to tax evasion related to a bribery and extortion scheme with the former mayor of McCook.
Jeff Tobolski
The former mayor of McCook, Illinois who pleaded guilty in 2020 to conspiring with the police chief to extort a restaurant owner. Tobolski admitted to accepting over $250,000 in bribes and other benefits over the years.
What they’re saying
“We must root out corruption at all levels of government to restore public trust.”
— Robert Jenkins, U.S. Attorney (Chicago Tribune)
What’s next
The judge will decide on Krneta's sentencing on August 13, 2026.
The takeaway
This case is part of a broader crackdown on corruption in the Chicago suburbs, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in local government contracting processes.
