He retired following investigations into political corruption in his administration . George Ryan , co - defendant , they did n't get fair trial in 2006 . Ryan refused to intervene in case , giving no reason why . The men were convicted on charges related to murder . Ryan , a Republican , served as Illinois Governor from 1999 - 2003 .
George Ryan , co - defendant , they did n't get fair trial in 2006 . Ryan refused to intervene in case , giving no reason why . The men were convicted on charges related to murder . Ryan , a Republican , served as Illinois Governor from 1999 - 2003 .