SEGAL SUPPORTERS START WEB SITE:

An anonymous group of supporters of embattled Chicago insurance broker Michael Segal has launched a Web site to bolster his tarnished image. Segal, the CEO of Near North National Group, is on trial on federal charges of embezzling more than $20 million over the course of 10 years from the premium fund trust account of his brokerage for extravagant personal expenses and contributions to powerful local politicians. The Web site, SegalSupport.com, is “designed to offer supporters of Michael Segal a place to voice their support as well as discuss legal issues related to the case,” according to a news release. Additionally, the Web site will provide trial updates and links to related articles. The site’s slogan, announced in a subsequent release, is “The American Dream on Trial.” The site operators claim to have no connection to Segal but would not release any information about who they are. A spokeswoman for Segal said he has no connection to and does not condone the site. “Neither Mr. Segal nor Near North National Group have any direct or indirect knowledge of or connection to this Web site,” Kurth said. “They do not condone its existence.” Segal’s trial in the U.S. Northern District Court of Illinois began April 19.