© 2024 Western New York Public Broadcasting Association

140 Lower Terrace
Buffalo, NY 14202

Mailing Address:
Horizons Plaza P.O. Box 1263
Buffalo, NY 14240-1263

Buffalo Toronto Public Media | Phone 716-845-7000
WBFO Newsroom | Phone: 716-845-7040
Your NPR Station
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Sean Ryan not surprised by Silver conviction; sensed former speaker was "in big trouble"

New York State

State Assemblyman Sean Ryan said he he's not surprised Sheldon Silver has been found guilty of using the power of his office to earn nearly $5 million illegally. Ryan, an attorney, told WBFO he read the criminal complaint lodged against the former Assembly speaker before the trial began.

"It was clear to me that the former speaker violated the law and was in big trouble," said the Buffalo

Democrat.

Ryan expressed hope that the conviction will be  a catalyst for meaningful reform. He said the case underscores the need to severely restrict state lawmakers from outside employment.

Ryan said Silver's conviction, coupled with the ongoing corruption trial of Dean Skelos, the former Republican leader in the State Senate, "definitely doesn't reflect well on our body."

"Now is the time for the Assembly and the Senate to take a good look at our rules," he said.

Listen to an interview between Ryan and WBFO News Director Brian Meyer:

Related Content