New York, NY —

A top aide and state contractor to former Connecticut Governor John Rowland are expected to sign a plea agreement today, ending the public corruption case that led to Rowland's resignation and imprisonment. Reporter Ginger Otis has more.

Three men close to John Rowland who were charged with running a criminal enterprise out of the governor's office are expected to sign plea agreements today, a week before their racketeering trial was to begin.

State Contractor William Tomasso is accused of giving former Rowland aide Peter Ellef and Ellef's son more than $1 million in bribes. In return, Ellef allegedly helped steer tens of millions of dollars in contracts to Tomasso and his companies. Ellef's lawyers would not comment on what last-minute negotiations were made.

Tomasso's lawyer said he expected his client would be released after pleading guilty today and remain free until sentencing. Rowland, currently serving a year in jail on a corruption charge, is scheduled for release this February.