Judge hearing arguments on ex-Ill. Gov. Ryan

[November 22, 2010]  CHICAGO (AP) -- A federal judge in Chicago is set to hear oral arguments on whether a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that curtailed the use of an anti-fraud law affects imprisoned former Illinois Gov. George Ryan.

Defense lawyers contend the ruling applies and parts of his 2006 conviction should be thrown out. A hearing is scheduled for Monday morning.

Prosecutors have argued Ryan's convictions should stand because they involved received bribes and kickbacks. The Supreme Court ruled that such crimes can be prosecuted under the so-called honest service provisions.

Ryan was convicted of racketeering, conspiracy, tax fraud and making false statements to the FBI when he was secretary of state and later governor from 1999 to 2003. He has served about three years of his 6 1/2-year term.

[Associated Press]

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