Latoya Hughes was appointed as the Acting Director of the Illinois Department of Corrections in April 2023. Ms. Hughes is a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Law and is an experienced trial attorney. Prior to serving at the Illinois Department of Corrections as the Acting Director, Ms. Hughes served as the Chief of Staff and Chief Inspector for the Department.

Prior to joining the Illinois Department of Corrections, Ms. Hughes served as an assistant state’s attorney in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office for 15 years. While serving in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Ms. Hughes was the supervisor of the Community Justice Centers where she worked with law enforcement and other community stakeholders to solve public safety concerns and improve the quality of life for communities. Ms. Hughes’ entire 22- year legal career has been dedicated to the field of public service.