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Ryan's Attorneys Argue Once More For New Trial

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Aug 29, 2007 8:46 am US/Central

Ryan's Attorneys Argue Once More For New Trial

Federal Appellate Court Panel Rejected Appeal, Attorneys Now Take Case Before Full Court

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CHICAGO (CBS) ― Attorneys for former Gov. George Ryan have begun another appeal of his conviction on corruption charges.

The former governor was convicted last year of racketeering and fraud, stemming primarily from a scandal in which truck drivers' licenses were given out for bribes when Ryan was secretary of state.

Ryan's attorneys said the jury deliberations were severely flawed, and that Ryan should get a new trial. They argued their case Tuesday before the full U.S. 7th Circuit Circuit Court of Appeals.

Last week, the appellate court turned down Ryan's appeal in a 2-1 split decision. But Ryan is asking the entire 11-member court to give him a rehearing and is being allowed to remain free for now.

Legal experts agree the situation with the jury was unusual. They also say Ryan's high profile made the case extraordinary.

"Because it was the former governor, there was publicity, in the course of the trial, things happened that wouldn't have happened in an ordinary case," said Richard Kling of Chicago Kent College of Law.

Ryan has been free on bond since his conviction 16 months ago. He's been with family at his Kankakee home all summer.

(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.