Sec. of State's daughter gets off scott free on drug charges

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Drug charges dropped against Jesse White's daughter
Prosecutors say they will refile charges
By Ben Bradley, ABC 7
December 15, 2006

Prosecutors dropped drug charges Friday against Secretary of State Jesse White's daughter, because the arresting officer did not show up in court. She was caught up in an undercover police sting at the Ida B. Wells Housing Complex earlier this week.

Now, Lorraine White claims police roughed her up during the arrest. She spoke exclusively with ABC7's Ben Bradley.

The Secretary of State's daughter and 16 others are accused of attempting to buy drugs from undercover police officers in the Ida B. Wells Housing Complex. But Lorraine White claims she was trying to continue her father's tradition of public service by helping public housing residents find work. White told ABC7 a friend needed help and that she was at the Wells Complex because she knew a "particular guy" who could help out.

During the late morning arrest, White claims police pushed her up some stairs and on to the concrete floor.

"A police officer -- a man -- picked me up and threw me to the hard -- if you've ever been in the project it's quite hard. And this is what happened," said Lorraine White, revealing a black eye.

White claims a black eye and six chipped teeth are a result of her run-in with police. She produced a report from Mercy Hospital to backup her claim.

A Chicago Police spokesperson says, while the department has "no formal complaints filed by Ms. White or evidence to support these claims," the department will make sure the "allegations are investigated properly."

Lorraine and her father are estranged but he is reaching out to her.

"I'm saddened by what has occurred, but nevertheless, she is a part of our family and we want to bring some resolve to the situation and give her as much support as possible," said Jesse White, Illinois secretary of state.

While Lorraine White maintains her innocence, she says she is worried about the damage her arrest may do to her father's reputation.

"As far as my father, I love him so much," Lorraine White said.

Prosecutors expect to refile charges against Lorraine White next week. But, they say, they will recommend a drug treatment program.

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