Whitaker Denies Involvement In Kickback Scheme

The former head of Illinois' Department of Public Health says he ``was not involved in any way'' with alleged illegal activities of his longtime chief of staff.  
In an indictment released this week, authorities accuse Quinshaunta Golden. They say she accepted $433,000 in kickbacks for steering grant and contract money to various groups around the time she worked for Eric E. Whitaker at the agency.  
Prosecutors have never accused Whitaker of wrongdoing.  
In a statement released Friday on his behalf by Marj Halperin Consulting, he adds he had ``no first-hand knowledge of the activities'' and has been ``fully cooperating with the investigation.''  
Golden faces theft and other charges. Messages seeking comment left at her residential number weren't returned. She is due to appear in court in Springfield Aug. 23.