He's pleading the Fifth and not testifying. That statement came from former Gov. George Ryan's attorneys.
A federal grand jury is investigating corruption in state government, but Ryan's lawyers say he's protected by the Fifth Amendment against self-incrimination.
You might remember Ryan was charged in December with racketeering conspiracy, mail and tax fraud, filing false tax returns and making false statements in a government investigation. He's pleaded innocent to all charges and is asking the court to dismiss the racketeering charge.
His trial is set for March of 2005.
