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Former Illinois Governor Convicted

In a case that has gripped the city of Chicago and the state of Illinois, a federal jury convicted former Governor George Ryan on all charges: that as secretary of state he steered state business to cronies in return for vacations, gifts and other benefits for himself and his family. A close associate and friend of former Gov. Ryan, lobbyist Lawrence Warner, was also found guilty on all charges against him in the landmark trial.

According to news sources, on their eleventh day of deliberations the six woman, six man jury found the 72-year-old former Governor guilty on 18 counts of racketeering, mail fraud, false statements and tax violations.

The 67-year-old Warner was also convicted on 12 counts of racketeering, mail fraud, extortion, money laundering and evading cash-reporting requirements. During a news conference, Ryan announced he would appeal the verdict, saying "The decision today is not in accordance with the kind of public service I`ve given to the people of Illinois over 40 years."