By AP/KWMU
Chicago – A federal judge is leaving open the possibility of declaring a mistrial at former Governor George Ryan's racketeering trial.
But Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer's decision today to replace two dismissed jurors with alternates means deliberations will restart for now.
Pallmeyer says she could declare a mistrial later if she concludes jury deliberations aren't proceeding fairly.
The original jury deliberated for eight days. But Pallmeyer says the reconstituted jury will begin as if none of the jurors had ever discussed the case.
Pallmeyer says security will strip the jury room of any notes and charts compiled earlier. She then began reading jurors the same 148 pages of instructions as before.
Ryan faces racketeering conspiracy, mail fraud and other charges.
Both Ryan and co-defendant Larry Warner deny doing anything illegal.