Ryan Trial Is Underway

By Amy Hart in News on Sep 28, 2005 5:24PM

What’s that? You’re sick of hearing about George Ryan’s corruption trial? And just think--the expected four month extravaganza is just beginning!

Jury selection wrapped up yesterday, but the jury of Ryan’s peers does not consist of other allegedly corrupt politicians. Instead, it is a racially diverse group of twelve people and six alternates, including a retiree, an SBC employee active in gay rights, a marathon runner, a mother/candy packaging business owner, and two postal service employees.

Chicagoist is personally concerned that this trial could prevent us from receiving packages of candy in the mail.

Opening statements began today, with Assistant US Attorney Zachary Fardon saying the case is about the “betrayal of the public’s trust,” and the “abuse of official power for personal profit and greed."

The prosecution is using Chicagoist favorite Scott Fawell as a chief witness against Ryan, his former friend and mentor. Fawell recently called his upcoming testimony against Ryan “the most distasteful thing I’ve ever done.”

Really, Scott? Is it more distasteful than the fraud and corruption you were found guilty of? Is it more distasteful than selling out your friend for the sole reason of sparing your fiancé from serving time in prison?

Fawell might begin his testimony as early as tomorrow, and could remain on the stand for several weeks.