Speaker knew about 2023 incident but left it unaddressed for monthsSpringfield, Disgraced ex-Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield, violated state law by committing two acts of sexual harassment, according to a summary legislative inspector general report made public Friday afternoon. LIG Mike McCuskey said the instances were “part of a pattern and practice of inappropriate sexual conduct” by Benton that began soon after he took his initial sexual harassment training as a newly elected member in 2023. The report includes a previously undisclosed third instance of alleged sexual harassment by Benton. “It is very evident, as the LIG points out, that the initial pattern and practice of harassment and sexual harassment occurred almost immediately upon former Rep. Harry Benton assuming office,” LEC Chair Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, said during a news conference. “Harry Benton did make inappropriate sexual comments to me despite my protestations, and his resignation was appropriate,” she wrote.