Patrick Fitzgerald: Public key in corruption battle

PJ Star.com reports:

The U.S. Attorney whose office put former Gov. George Ryan in prison said corruption in government will only change when the public changes its attitude about it.

"It's not just a law enforcement issue like bank robbery. If you see something happen and don't report it, then you are partially responsible," said U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald, whose office covers the Northern District of Illinois, roughly the top third of the state.

The prosecutor, who was the featured speaker at the Peoria County Bar Association's 100th annual Lincoln Memorial Banquet dinner Thursday night, told reporters beforehand that he believes the public can make a difference because "they have more eyes and ears than law enforcement and the FBI."

No word yet from Illinois politicians on this one.