From The Chicago Sun-Times:

Ex-Ryan aide tapping friends for cash

August 23, 2002

BY TIM NOVAK AND STEVE WARMBIR STAFF REPORTERS

Gov. Ryan's former top aide, Scott Fawell, has mailed letters to state workers, lobbyists and friends asking them to help pay his legal bills so he can fight charges that he illegally used state resources to elect Ryan governor.

Fawell is trying to raise money for his defense fund at the same time the governor's friends are trying to amass a defense fund to help Ryan pay legal bills from the on-going federal investigation that has snared Fawell and other Ryan cronies. Ryan has not been charged, but his campaign fund, Citizens for Ryan, is charged with racketeering.

"I'll give George money, but I won't give Fawell any,'' said one lobbyist who got Fawell's letter asking for a $1,000 donation. Others got letters asking for $250.

In Fawell's letter, a copy of which was obtained by the Chicago Sun-Times, he says he cannot afford his growing legal bills. Fawell was indicted in April, and his wife filed for divorce a few days later.

Since his indictment, Fawell has been on a paid leave of absence from his $195,000-a-year job as the CEO of the agency that runs McCormick Place and Navy Pier.

"As you know, in America you are presumed innocent of a crime until proven guilty,'' Fawell wrote in the letter. "I have found myself facing the greatest challenge of my life proving those words. In order to prove my innocence I need the best legal representation I can afford. The government has an unlimited budget--our tax dollars--but I don't.

"I have already expended over $150,000 of my own money, but this will not begin to pay my expenses. I unfortunately do not have the means to continue to fight this battle without the help of my friends. It is only with your assistance and generosity that I will be able to pursue this battle. I am asking for your contribution of $1,000 to pursue this goal. Friends of mine will be hosting an evening of cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at Tavern on Rush, 1031 Rush St. on Tuesday, Sept. 17 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

"I hope I can count on your participation. It is only with the support, friendship and understanding of those around you that make tough times like these just a little more bearable.''

Fawell's attorney Edward Genson declined to comment on the letter.

Fawell is charged with using state employees and equipment for Ryan's campaign for governor four years ago. Fawell and the governor's campaign fund are set to go on trial in November.