HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania prosecutors say they’ve filed charges against a former state Senate leader and seven others in what’s being called a “pay to play” case involving the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Attorney General Kathleen Kane said Wednesday they are accused of criminal activity for their financial and political advantage.

The defendants include former state Senate Democratic Leader Bob Mellow, former turnpike chairman Mitchell Rubin, former turnpike chief executive Joe Brimmeier and three other former turnpike employees. The other defendants are two turnpike vendors.

The allegations include conspiracy, commercial bribery, bid rigging, theft and conflict of interest.

The announcement was made ahead of a news conference by Kane and state police Commissioner Frank Noonan.