CHICAGO, Feb. 17 (UPI) -- The wife of imprisoned former Illinois Gov. George Ryan and his attorney say they've contacted President Obama asking for Ryan's release.
Ryan, who was convicted on corruption charges in 2006 and is in an Indiana federal prison, suffers from health problems, the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday.
The 75-year-old has kidney problems and infected teeth, former Gov. Jim Thompson, representing Ryan, said.
Lura Lunn Ryan, who has a terminal lung disease, said the president "certainly knows George well. He worked with him in the legislature."
"I hope and pray that the president will see it in his heart to sign the release form," she said. George "doesn't belong where he is at this time."
"There's nothing to be gained by keeping him another five years," Thompson said. "He's already been punished, they are penniless and Mrs. Ryan has a very life-threatening illness. We're not asking for a pardon, just a release."
