Illinois quick hits: Son of ‘El Chapo’ guilty; still above $3 a gallon

December 2, 2025/

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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

Son of ‘El Chapo’ guilty

A notorious gang leader’s son has been convicted on federal drug charges.

Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman’s son, Joaquin Guzman Lopez, 39, pleaded guilty Monday to drug conspiracy and engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise.

“El Chapo’s” son has been detained in U.S. custody since his arrest in July 2024.

Still above $3 a gallon

According to AAA, 31 states now have gas prices under $3 a gallon, but Illinois is not one of them.

Going from lowest to highest, Illinois ranked 41st out of 50 states with an average of $3.147 per gallon on Dec. 1.

No other Midwestern state was over $3.

Illinois has the second-highest gas tax in the nation after California.

Skating rink opening

A skating rink will open near the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield Wednesday.

The rink in Union Square Park uses an artificial surface to give an experience similar to ice skating, with visitors able to use their own skates or borrow them at the facility.

Historic re-enactors will be available at the grand opening at 4:30 Wednesday evening.

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