Bump and Update: A 91 page Indictment was returned against former Governor Ryan today.

The indictment alleges that for more than a decade Ryan let his friends wield great influence in state government and profit from his positions as secretary of state and later, governor. Ryan allowed some of his friends, who were not state employees, to steer state contracts in return for bribes and gave others insider information that they could profit from, while ignoring complaints of wrongdoing from employees and others.

In return, the indictment alleges, Ryan and his family received illegal cash payments, gifts, vacations and personal services from his friends and associates. The indictment did not list a dollar figure for Ryan but said members of his family got cash loans and gifts totaling $167,000.

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Original post 9:46 am

WBEZ Chicago is reporting credible rumors that former Illinois Gov. George Ryan will be indicted by a Federal grand jury today. Here's more from NBC5.com :

Former Gov. George Ryan, R-Ill., could be indicted by a grand jury as early as Wednesday, according to NBC5's Dick Kay and Sun-Times columnist Michael Sneed, who is also an NBC5 contributor.

Justice Department leaks indicate that Ryan will face charges of extortion, racketeering and income tax evasion. You can listen to WBEZ on line here.

Update: Here's why we think former Gov. Ryan still deserves to win the Nobel Peace Prize.