The charges

Abramoff's plea bargain

Conspiracy: Abramoff acknowledged that he defrauded four Indian tribes of a total of $20 million by making secret deals to receive payments made to a business partner.

Tax evasion: Abramoff's scheme resulted in the nonpayment of a reported $1.7 million in federal taxes.

Fraud: Abramoff funded a Scotland golf trip for an unnamed US representative, reported to be Republican Robert W. Ney of Ohio, by using a $50,000 donation from the Texas Tigua tribe.

Pending charges

Abramoff faces five counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy in his purchase of a Miami cruise ship line. He and a partner allegedly concocted a false $23 million wire transfer as part of the deal. Abramoff is expected to plead guilty today.

The investigation

Bribery: Prosecutors plan to use information from Abramoff and partner Michael Scanlon to pursue possible bribery charges against members of Congress and congressional aides.

Possible path of inquiry: Investigators on Capitol Hill and at the Justice Department may continue to examine Abramoff's relationship with top Republican activists who received large donations from some of Abramoff's tribal clients.

Lobbying reform: Some members of Congress hope to use the scandal to push tough new restrictions on lobbying activities.

GLOBE STAFF GRAPHIC