I've been following this in the local press, and I'm not so sure. I think the most favorable interpretation for Rowland, and giving him every benefit of the doubt, might be that he might not have crossed the line into illegality, but was so close to it that his shadow was well over into it. There was surely the appearance of impropriety. Neutral or less sympathetic observers might reasonably conlude he crossed the line. I think it's that close.
I have always liked Governor Rowland, but I don't think he's the victim of a lynch mob. He was up to no good, and he has brought the state Republican Party into disrepute. It's tragic.