Mr. Leach is ready to go
Leach, "I would like to have Mr. Scrushy come to the microphone." Scrushy is going to introduce his family. Mr. Scrushy is introducing his family, I can't hear him so we'll just wait this out.
Fuller - You have a beautiful family Mr. Scrushy.
The next witness for Mr. Scrushy is Jimmy Mitchell.
He lives in Benson, Alabama outside Pell City... "I've known Richard Scrushy all of my life...The earliest memories I have outside my family are Richard Scrushy and his family...His family and my family lived next door to each other...All the way through high school..."
Did you ride buses to school? I started off as a toddler with Richard Scrushy....As a toddler Richard Scrushy and I spent numerous hours today and outside he was the same type of child...He played with energy and enthusiasm...He and I began in first grade riding the buses...as all of us do...Somehow I want to cut through the fog...and let Judge Fuller know what I know of Richard Scrushy...Richard Scrushy never harmed anyone....Never got in a fight...I can't remember him even being disrespectful to anyone...He didn't fight....He didn't steal....They were devout Christian people....They raised their children like children ought to be raised....We both attended church...As children we're not theologians...But he was the type of person that believed in God as a child just as he does today..."
Did you stay in touch with Richard Scrushy? ..."We were all closely entwined...He developed a tremendous love of music...He loved music greatly and that was his thrust as an early adolescent...I moved to Dothan...attended high school and started a family...He moved to Dothan and started a respitory therapy program at Wallace Community College...Never ever did I ever see Richard Scrushy harm anyone...He may have gotten mad from time to time...I never saw him be disrespectful to anyone...."
We lived next to each other in Dothan for three years...He's a tenacious type of person...He has always had that type of drive...That type of zeal...Richard started a new busisness in Birmingham...HealthSouth...He developed a real enthusiasm for Vince Lombardi...His drive is what build that company..."
Had to take care of some technical issues.
Witness - "After selling my business, selling all of my assets...I today have started fresh...I look at that as injury $800,000 in medical bills and Mr. Foran got 1.5 years in the penitentiary...I've never worked for Richard Scrushy...He's never given me a pay check...Let Judge Fuller see the past I know is indicative of the future of Richard Scrushy....
Leach - I want to say I have tendered to the court two psychological reports I just want the court to keep them in the confidential portion of the record.
Fuller - I have the report from Wellsspring Christian Clinic, and Richard Ence...that will be placed under seal.
The next witness is Leigh Laatsch.
Leach - I referred to you as a pastor...Are you in fact an ordained pastor?
Witness - I am...The first time I met Richard and Leslie Scrushy they were surrounded by children....and covered in sprinkles....That was about seven years ago...The first thing he ever said to me was let me tell you about God and what he's done in my life...My husband and I are co-pastors of Grace and Purpose Church...It's something we all share a common bond in, such as reaching people for Christ...Grace and Purpose is a church that falls in line with Kingdom Builders...orphans...finding people that are in need....whether that be emotional..Our heart in Grace and Purpose Church is to reach those through TV who can't go to church...We have calls all week...
Witness - I've seen how he is with his family...He's very involved...Loves every single one of his children there's absolutely no way.
Mr. Feaga - You indicated that Grace and Purpose Church was founded 1.5 years ago, could you be a little more specific...
Witness - We were at dinner...and it was something we were just talking about...We ended up keep talking about it in the rain...Late fall...maybe 2005...Birthed in our spirit....
Feaga - I wonder if you know when Richard Scrushy was indicted...
Witness - I don't remember..."I love the Lord with all my heart and I've never seen this verse until this morning...I Timothy 6 17-18..." "That verse so much captures the man he's extremely humble, extremely compassionate...that's the man I know.
Next witness is Gary West. He is an engineer at Eco-Tech...He was also an engineer at HealthSouth...He says he's known Scrushy for 52 years...
West - After he left Selma, we stayed in touch over the years...He called one afternoon and told me about an event....
Did you eventually develop the auto-ambulator? Yes. Sir
Witness - "Robotic Gate Orthosis...It's actually a robotic device that helps simulate walking...Marin, this is the concept he had based on what he had seen...He went to the trouble to do fundraising...The man that you seen in this is Doug A....He's a quadraplegic...What this device is to do is to help people with a walking problem...It attaches to just above the knee and the angle and moves the person's legs in a normal type walk...There were a handful of patents issued...they were assigned to the company
I've never seen this man run from anything...I don't know any reason he would....
Leach - At this time I would like to proffer from testimony from Mr. Scrushy's daughter...Krista Plia...
"Christa would tell the court she's always had a very close relathionship with her father...He had to make great efforts through a number of years to do what dad's do with children...She would want to tell the court...for years she believed Richard Scrushy was not a rich man...He was always there for her...They never failed through all the years to meet the children's needs...A big part of the reason Richard Scrushy moved back to Birmingham was so he could be close to his family...Richard Scrushy is the one that puts together the birthday parties...Additionally, she would like to tell the court as she has watched brothers and sisters...She characterizes Richard Scrushy as a rock...instilled values of doing the right thing...None of the children view each other as half brothers or half sisters...No one is treated better or worse..They get the same treatment...
Leslie Scrushy will now take the stand.
Leslie – He is an unbelievable father…He’s the type of father every child should have...
Fuller asks Leslie to adjust the microphone
Leslie - He makes sure each child feels special....He knows (one of the children)...likes cheese grits...and there are so many idiosyncracies...We are all very close...Richard is the rock of that...He has raised his children so well....and just last night...They were crawling all over him...He is the best father...Teaches them values...Prays over each and every one of them every night...We teach them the fruit of the spirit...He is the rock in our family...(She breaks down crying)
He has a mother's love for our children...Like he's the softy in the family...That's who he is and he's been portrayed as something he is not...As God as my witness he is not who has been portrayed to be..
"We have our television show Viewpoint which is a ministry....and we have Grace and Purpose church....Every night he's preparing sermons...We like to be in our pajamas like 7 O'Clock...They love their dad to read to them...Our life totally revolves around ministry...You see pastors coming in constantly....
Are you familiar with how many shows you have done? Hundreds...I don't know exactly...I'm sorry I'm a little nervous....
Flight risk - "It is very important in our lives to be obedient to the authority that has been placed over us...The office of probation is an authority over us...On Nov 4, 2003 we were assigned probation officers...They called real early in the morning....It has always been crucial and important because we certainly don't want the wrath of the government on us....He will be here...because he loves us so much... no matter what happens...fleeing means he could never see his children again...He would never fllee, ever....
Mr. Feaga - If your husband was to flee the country (what would precvent you from going with him)
Leslie - If you'd ever seen us travel...We are citizens of the U.S. It would not be possible for us to leave with him.
Feaga - Were you ever present when your husband met with Gov. Siegelman?
Leslie - Yes
Feaga - Were you with your husband...around July 1999
Lesle - "What I understand is that no one was present....I've seen your organization fight with all you have....to take him away from his children...I don't understand in America...how that could happen...I would think that you would want to know 100 percent that that happen..."
Feaga - Would you agree many of the jury had family? Your husband has been saying they are corrupt.
Leslie - Well I understand there is some evidence that hasn't been investigated yet ....
Mr. Feaga is showing Mrs. Scrushy a newspaper article - Would you agree that members of jury (have families that might be hurt by Scrushy's comments)
Leslie - I would think members of the jury would want that investigated to find out if there was someone corrupt....I think anyone who sat in this courtroom was flabbergasted at the verdict.
Mr.Perrine is up for the government to address motions for upward departure as well as a response to Scrushy downward departure....
"We would agree with a couple of things...The court should sentence defendant based on his conduct both during, before and after this trial...I'd like to begin...with personal circumstances...The U.S. would point to this court U.S. vs. DeBegger..
"Though this defendant may have done good things in the past...Every defendant is held accountable for his criminal conduct...The law is he's held accountable for his actions...Richard Scrushy by going to prison is in no way limited to continue his good works...He has numerous assets...It is significant to note that the ministries began at or near the indictment in Birmingham in 2003 or near the time of this indictment here and we would have the court take notice of that....This court routinely sentences middle-aged men to prison...Leon Carmichael was sentenced to 40 years by this court...Routinely men are sent to prison with sentences that reflect conduct...
"The value of bribe here was $500,000....We would agree this is certainly an atypical case...more than deserving of an upward departure...This case falls well outside the heartland...This is the Governor of the State of Alabama...This is a bribe paid to get on a state board....half a million dollars...Look at what Richard Scrushy got...He bribed his way to be a public official...Once he got on the board he contiued his fraudulent illegal conduct by bribing another CON Board member...He started bribing Tim Adams....to get control and influence...It was systematic.. It was thorough...It was planned out...He instructed Mike Martin to threaten to fire UBS...He personally delievered the money to defendant Siegelman...For them to claim that defendant Scrushy is deserving of dowanrad departure...You have to look at this man's conduct before, during and after the trial...We're arguing that this man has undertaken a purposeful systematic attack on the criminal justice system...We have introduced...the video of Richard Scrushy saying there were no witnesses...to perpetrate a massive PR campaign to say this is a kangaroo court....
Fuller yells at Hernandez - Let him finish
Perrine - This court can take notice....
Fuller - Move on
Perrine - We would ask for an upward departure of two levels.
Pilger - We're mostly stand on our briefs here....
Fuller admonishes Hernandez "If you want to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory continue..."
Hernandez will not speak to upward departure then goes on to argue on downward departure.
Fuller - I will acknowledge in this court's mind that Mr. Scrushy has done many good things....but the court does not find that a departure is warranted...The U.S.motions for upward departure is DENIED.
Fuller - I believe we have heard all of the testimony in mitigation..I would say that I have reviewed all letters that have been sent to the court...summaries of telephone calls...About 574 letters that I have read (for Siegelman) numersous letters on behalf of Mr.Scrushy...I will hear from Mr. Siegelman and Mr. Scrushy....before pronouncing sentence.
Kilborn - Your honor still has complete discretion and I would ask that you exercise that descretion...
Siegelman - "Your honor first I want to thank you for this opportunity...There's a lot I'd like to say...I don't really know how to say it...(Emotional)...I want to apologize to this court, to this court and the people of Alabama...I want to say I'm sorry to my wife and my children....I never intended to do anything that approached a crime...I know the difference between right and wrong...It's something everyone can see...I've raised millions of dollars for thosusands of people...I have never once traded a contribution for anything...I know the jury has looked at my actions and heard my words through the voices of Nick Bailey and they saw bribery and obstruction of justice...
I am not a perfect person...That 1983 letter was a good lesson...I'm not a perfect person, but I am a good person...I was drawn into public service because I believe in the people of this state...All I ever wanted to do was to work to make this state a better place...I was fortunate to be raised by two wonderful parents...My dad worked all of his life, workd for 33 years for the same company and was fired from his job after he had a couple of heart attacks and I saw him cry because he thought he was bringing shame to our family....I saw my mother, who worked as a beutician from the time she was 16, work until her hands were bleeding from sticking her hands in those rough solutions....but they never quit...They never gave up...
They kept working so that my brother and I could have a better life than they had...I've held my wife in my arms as she lay critically injured....from a headon collision with a drunk driver who had just been released from prison...We have not lived the kind of opulent life that one might expect...I've never been motivated by greed, power....a house without central air conditioning or heating...My wife's pleasurei s going hiking...
We chose a frugal lifestyle and we were saving for our retirement...
Siegelman has gone on to talk about education...."Your honor I know that this verdict has tested my faith, tested my belief...It's shaken me...But I have never waivered in my belief in this justice system..I hope and believe the 11th Circuit will give us a new trial...I understand the jury saw it another wayl...I understand you have the sole power...to determine ....I ask you for mercy and compassion and I ask you to send me home...Thank you..."
Scrushy attorney Art Leach addressed the court next.
Leach - As I look back over this hard fought case...The most important things that comes to mind is the evidence we presented to you...I say this without question Richard Scrushy is the greatest man I have met in my life...I met him on October 31, 2003....Judge I'm a student of history I view learning history as walking a while with the great men...I recently completed David McCullogh's book on Harry Truman...It was hard when that journey was over...
When you think about Richard Scrushy as a man....I just want to reflect for a moment...Where can you go today...How many Henry Ford's or J.P. Morgans are out there in the world today...What you see are companies that are very old...People who have created multi-billion dollar companies from the ground up are very rare...very rare...The only other two I can think of are Bill Gates...and Paul Allen...I am here to talk to you about an added dimension of this man...That is his heart and his giving nature...
I know we shouldn't talk about the case in Birmingham...The man did give away...millions of dollars...His giving and his loving heart I am asking you to be merciful to my client today...
As with everything with Richard Scrushy his soul is very complicated...I will tell this court, my contact with him has deepened my relationship with God...However he is one of the very few people I have met that actually lives his faith...(I was there during) This period where Richard was shifting...from a tycoon...to a man faith...
I remember Richard Scrushy telling me he was praying to God to show him...Within months Kingdom Builders was off and running....He was building...He takes that responsibilty so seriously...He often compromises other things...This case...There were literally a dozen times I had to grab Richard Scrushy and say you've got to focus on this case...He's spending his entire days strategizing with the Bishops....He's got people running businesses...I'll readily admit the foundation started....
He has given to this community...causes...In part I suggest to you it was Richard Scrushy's giving spirit that brings him into this courtroom here today...As I listened the other day to General Summerall...two ambitious men met (Scrushy and Siegelman)...And their lives aligned for a time...It was Richard Scrushy's giving heart....Had he rejected the Governor's request we would not be here...He went out and did what thousands do every day...
What has been lost in the discussion...is the law allowed the contribution...Years of litigation before the Supreme Court....The McCormick decision speaks to that...He has always been a giver and that continues today...it is reflected in his ministry...And my understaning is there have been 900 programs...Those are not political programs...All they did was talk about the Bible...Grace and Purpose church...South America, East and Central Africa...
All I ask judge is you continue these good deeds and conclude the man before you is not the typical defendant that comes before this court....HealthSouth produced jobs, incomes...Through his charitable giving that amounted to $22 million over the course of time...He's given of himself...I would go so far to say this court has never seen a defendant that has given so much away...You just never know that it's out there...
I bet through today this court was unaware of all these children being fed in Africa...Ricahrd Scrushy is a good man...Richard Scrushy did not know that the governor was in any way responsible for this debt...The first IHS check...It was only after that one was...which the governor stood as the guarantor...Richard Scrushy did not know anything about it...
When you compare sentences in similar cases both in state and federal court...you find those cases significantly lower then the guidelines...I know you're old enough to know when there were no guidelines...I would suggest to you judge if you went back...the sentecne you would be contemplating would not look anything...I respect the fact...You are probably the most patient federal judge I have ever seen...
The sentencing of Gov. Hunt...who was convicted in a similar corruption case and pocketing...$200,000 and placed on probation...Judge Gov. Hunt's case is comparable...Gov. Hunt was actually taking money....Richard Scrushy did not give a penny to the governor...Gov. Hunt's case is most comparable...Judge we've provided the court with the psychological reports...You can see the effect on his family...We suggest that by looking at this case...compared to the Hunt case the sentence needs to be lower...
Look at the great and good aspects of this man...If you do decide on prison...that you listen to all the testimony...working with probation...He had an impeccable record in Birmingham...He has complied here before this court...We provided evidence about his health situation...People need time to get their affairs in order...to address their medical needs...Judge the sentencing guidelines were an attempt to bring uniformity...What the sentencing guidelines have done..It simply would never happen outside the guidelines...Judge I ask that you find mercy...that whatever sentence you have in mind...you take into account...this giving man...
Scrushy now comes up...I cannot hear him.
It’s about destroyed my family and I’ve not been able to function and earn an income…I want to clear something up…When I was 15 years old I was called into the ministry…I went to my pastor…Saturday mornings…most children are asleep…Richard I’m not sure what you ought to do…See if God is really calling you…He called me every few years…
I did the things I felt was right…But I knew I was being called…In prayer I realized that he was calling me…I am full time in the ministry…I have a flock of people I pastor…Many of those young ladies were cocaine addicts when they came to our church as well as ministering to people…This is something that happened…All of us turn to God when they have trouble…Yes sir when you go through fire you turn to God..God is my life..I have been called to the ministry…We have 1,000 churches…I believe God has called me as an end-time soldier….You’ve heard the testimony of what we’re doing in Africa…We teach them how to raise money….3,000 children are a drop in the bucket…This is the tip of the iceberg…So much needs to be done…I want to mention my children.
I know there was only one perfect man who walked the face of the earth…I’m sorry for the things that happened…I never asked for anything and never received it…I would never ever serve again…I think it’s a horrible thing…I think we’re going to lose because of this …If we continue to go after people…I hope you will have mercy on this volunteer servant…It concerns me greatly…I think I’ve said enough I just want you to know that I feel bad about all of this…The governor and his family…
I was raised in a 900 square foot home…I know what people go through….They taught us right from wrong…I didn’t need any money…I didn’t want any money…God blessed me…I just pray your honor would consider my family…these services…these ministries…That’s who I am…I have no interest in having money…I’m just a pastor…I just ask you to allow me to continue to do that and pray that you will
Pilger for the Govenment - "Judge you presided over the entire trial...What I would add here is the nature and circumstances of their crimes...in terms of the cynical criminal intent..With respect to Gov. Siegelman and Mr. Scrushy we would not deny they have not done some good things...We would ask that you keep those things in perspective...These matters can't serve to distinguish these defendants from the ordinary citizens...who simply have no chance that they would ask in the same way when they stand before you....they never have the money or position to do it in such a visible way...
Business criminals are not to be treated more leniently...They are more rather than less culpable...So we ask you judge ....that you keep in mind...To whom much is given much is expected...By no reckoning did they have to do what they did...for power and for money...The facts of this case show the defendants have no remorse at all...They still insist that business is as usual...They insist there is no need to punish them for bribery, conspiracy, and fraud...
The jury, the courts reject that for the nonsense it is...They chose to attack anyone ane everyone...They will continue to do so...This should increase their reasonable sentence...It is sad for the families...The defendants situations...are the result of their actions...Public corruption is not some arcane issue that regular people can't understand...Everywhere where corruption is tolerated...it leads to misery and ruin...
For one example, Gen. Sumerall talked about the troubles in Baghdad...We've sent people to Baghdad...Fortunately for us corruption is not tolerated here...The people of Alabama have spoken through a jury...The rule of law can't be turned into a rule of money...We ask you to impose a sentence...that reflects they have absolutely no respect for the laws...but did this out of greed for power and money..."
Joseph Fitzpatrick - "At points this trial has been contentious..earlier today the prosecution was equated as jackals...One during the course of the trial...it was compared to the Tuskegee Syphilis expeiment...We chalk it up to lawyers, as they should, zealously defending their clients...
Gov.Siegelman and Richard Scrushy are two men who have done some great things...I would like to thank Gov. Siegelman...Mr. Scrushy....That does not change the fact they sit at defendants' table as convicted felons...There's a saying that goes good men sometimes do bad things and likewise bad nen sometimes do good things....
In that time I've also prosecuted charismatic public servants...The history of the world is replete with examples...I'm here to argue ...both defendants must take responsibility for their actions...In this sentencing during the trial, we've heard there wasn't anything wrong with what they did...One of Mr. Scrushy's former defense counsel even said Alabama Politics 2006...It is clear defendants behavior in this case is wrong....
Since drug cases have been used as an analogy...Our prisons are filled with drug dealers and users...Often people supplying the drugs are not prosecuted...Now I work in the white collar...division....Gov. Siegelman has held more statewide positions...Richard Scrushy was the CEO of a Fortune 500 company...A message will be sent that the state and federal law have teeth...
If these two individuals can be charged...and convicted then certainly it can happen to a local official...At a time when our junior college system is in shambles...and our Legislature....The court will remember a $40,000 bribe...The very issues being brought up in this trial are being ignored by our Legislature...
There was a fistfight on the Senate floor...They have lost respect for themselves...This court has the opportunity...to promote respect for the law...The court has the opportunity to make sure what these defendants did will never be referred to Alabama Politics 2007, 2008 and beyond..."
Mr. Franklin - "...I am the prosecutor I am supposed to seek justice...I will respect the sentence...I know that it has been contentious...My emotions have gotten the best of me on occasion...And I apologize to the court if I crossed the line...It is important to the U.S...Judge I think in the last hour or two...what happens is the focus shifts...and I want to bring the court back...I see defendants...they start hiding behind their families...I need this court to focus...regardless of their social status...they stand before this court as defendants...They stand before this court as convicted felons...They are not victims in this case...They are convicted felons...I would ask this court treat them as such...I want to read to the court briefely an editorial comment...This particular person wrote - Grave harm is inflicted on society...in the case of Siegelman and Scrushy...jurors concluded that Siegelman traded a seat ...on a hospital board...
I want to tell you people should not be afraid of government service because of this case...What this case stands for is it should remind people why you seek public service...It is because you are honest...you are hardworking...Think what happened in this case...Gov. Siegelman was in office so long...He wanted to stay there...He traded...and Scrushy was willing...He did receive a tangible benefit...How bad does it look if you don't serve on the board where your corporate office is...
I walked into this courthouse and had a court impose life sentences and had court impose probation...This is not a probationary case...This is a case that screamed out for a sentence in the guideline range this court has determined appropriate...If as a defendants have told us that all politicians do this...That is more of a reason to pose a sentence of imprisonment to show them you cannot...accept a bribe...conspire...obstruct law enforcement...I have to believe that all politicians do not do what these defendants have been convicted of...I stand here ready to prosecute any case similar to this where a governor takes a $500,000 bribe from a CEO and appoints him to a board.
Recess until 7 p.m.
Fuller - "I'm further obligated to state the reasons for a particular sentence to a particular defendant...It is clear the sentencing guidelines are advisory....the sentencing judge should filter that...I have done that to the best of my ability...I wish the record to be clear...I've heard all the evidence...I have considered and I have heard all the arguments written and oral...Gov.Siegelman
Siegelman 88 months
The courts ruling remains the same...Even if I had not granted the government's motion for upward departure...I would still make the same finding....
Governor Siegelman the sentence is order imposed...If you would please be seated....
Scrushy 82 months
Who gives a rats ass? Fry em all! War Eagle...
Posted by: Drew Peacock | July 03, 2007 at 12:47 AM
This was just a continuance of what's been happening in Alabama politics for years. Although these men were guilty,they just weren't as smart as others who haven't been caught. Why do they not get to spend some time with the people they campaigned so hard against, state inmates, maybe this would be eye opening! Crooks are crooks and the Bible says thou shalt not steal! Answer to the one Judge who will hold your eternal destiny. This is just a temporary place for you! It will be a lot hotter where you're going then!!!
Posted by: Lee Bush | July 01, 2007 at 02:47 PM
Prayer is powerful. Continue to pray for all parties involved.
Posted by: Ambassador for Christ | June 30, 2007 at 12:51 PM
Only in Alabama can you steal millions,and then go to a country club to serve a couple of years only to return a millionaire.
Each man should go to Folsom or spend time on the chain gang and then start over with a suit of clothes and $50.00
Thanks Fuller, who paid you off or promised you something "down the road"?
Posted by: Brian | June 29, 2007 at 04:02 PM
Reading what they had to tell the Judge broke me up laughing. I bet that was a sight to see. Guilty was the verdict and time is what they got, and they deserved all of it and maybe more. Before I went to sleep last nite I couldnt help but think the changes they are going through. No meals from a chef, no soft bed to sleep in, no frills of being rich, that life is over boys, have fun, in a few years you both will be forgotten. Like a bad smell in the wind....gone!
Posted by: Aqua | June 29, 2007 at 02:25 PM
For those who think Don is innocent, wake up. While governor, he was involved in many questionable activities with his political cronies. He just got caught this time.
As for Scrushy, I'm just glad I didn't have money invested in HealthSouth at the end. If he was smart enough to build that company from the ground up, he surely knew what was going on. He got caught this time. I pray that his religious epiphany is genuine, but if it's not, he will be judged by a power higher than Judge Fuller. Anyway, Prison Ministries is always looking for help.
Posted by: Rman | June 29, 2007 at 01:36 PM
I realize that the media has to ask questions. But how dumb is this question? Ms. Seigleman are you upset? Wouldnt you be upset.
Posted by: Summer | June 29, 2007 at 12:45 PM
YOU LIBS NEVER GET IT. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS IS DEMOCRATS WILL NEVER TURN ON THERE PARTY MEMBERS NO MATTER WHAT THEY HAVE DONE, REPUBLICANS HAVE ENOUGH SENSE TO DISCARD THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN CONVICTED. THESE TWO GUYS COULD HAVE SHOT SOMEONE AND SOMEHOW IT WOULD STILL HAVE BEEN THE REPUBLICANS FAULT. SIEGLEMAN HAD THE MOST CORRUPT HIGHWAY DEPT. IN THE HISTORY OF THIS STATE. JUST LOOK AROUND MONTGOMERY COUNTY AND LOOK AT ALL THE PRIVATE DRIVEWAYS THE STATE OF ALABAMA PAYED FOR. SEE HOW MANY VEHICLES WERE SOLD TO CONTRACTORS FOR A DOLLAR, REPAIRS MADE PAINT JOBS COMPLETED AND SOLD BACK FOR A DOLLAR. YOU LIBERALS CAN NOT SEE BECAUSE YOU ARE WEARING ROSE COLORED GLASSES. I DO NOT SPEAK OF THINGS I HEAR ABOUT I AM SPEAKING OF THINGS I KNOW ABOUT
Posted by: kelster | June 29, 2007 at 10:34 AM
test
Posted by: KELSTER | June 29, 2007 at 10:24 AM
Comments by those who were not in the court room , both trails,Birmingham and here in Montgomery are making comments on what they have heard from those who spew out these outrageous comments. I spent 44 years of my life serving my country and I have believed in the law and Justice all my life untill I witness this 8 some weeks of this trail. There was more to this trail than just these two who was sentenced today.84% more which was not found guilty. Today I heard Dr. Blakley dicuss the law and the guidance for sentencing and for anyone who was not in the court room, you missed one of the best dicussion that I have every heard on guide lines for sentencing. Would any of you refuse a person a ride to a place who was going to the same place? One of those that were sentenced today did allow a person to ride with the Ex CEO to a board meeting.The GovermentTook this as a very serious crime. This CEO who was on this board and served 4 governors and never charge one penny for his exspense during his entire service on that board. I just wonder if the goverment look to see if the free loader filed an exspence voucher for those free trips. If any one of you every happen to be elected to a leader position in the State of Alabama take this advice to heart. Never buy a motorcycle and if you give a contribution do it through the indian organization.
Posted by: Jim Pinckard | June 29, 2007 at 01:28 AM
Ive been a professional medical employee of Healthsouth on and off for many years and I know Dick Scrushy had been a crook for the entire time.......the sentence for his crime to patients, society and humanity is much too short.
Posted by: JJ | June 29, 2007 at 12:16 AM
This is a SAD, SAD day for Alabama! We are suppose to be a free country...well we're not! If someone takes a contribution and someone gives one....the law is telling us who we can give our money to.They're really trying to tell us who to vote for!!!Get rid of the politics in law and you would NOT have a case involving politicians!
Our day will come...sooner than you think for this judge, prosceution and anyone else who had a decision in sending these two fine citizens to jail.
These two people need to be out.Justice has not been fair, but it will in the end! The lawyers showed a good defense.
Judge, I hope you sleep real good from now on!
Posted by: Sarah Smith | June 29, 2007 at 12:07 AM
disgusted--- the feds didnt 'come down here'. alabama state elected officials and their staff and corporate executives violated federal law and were indicted and prosecuted and convicted. please, dont confuse your ignorance of separate legal spheres with some antiquated carpetbagger argument. siegelman is a thief, plain and simple. CEO's play by the rules politicians lay down for them. Not to sound apologist for Scrushy, but he followed that rule. funny thing is, if you believe siegelman, scrushy found an unreliable contracting partner in siegelman due to the corruption of hamrick, young and nick. funny too, that siegelman in his finest hour before the judge, invokes 'nick', not mr bailey or felon mr bailey, but nick. hmmm. still gives one pause what we dont know about siegelman and bailey's true relationship.
Posted by: claude smith | June 28, 2007 at 09:05 PM
Infantry, I am not a liberal you bonehead, I am a Republican. Shocking?? That I would support a Democratic Governor? The fact is that even if I did not vote for Siegelman I do not agree with the Federal Government coming into the State of Alabama and crucifying men that have served our great State well. Why not go and repair a levy, house the homeless in our country, get child abusers in jail for 6 or 7 years at a time, and quit spending all our hard earned tax dollars on lengthy investigations and trials of our public servants. Do something good and productive for a change. God help us.
Posted by: disgusted | June 28, 2007 at 08:55 PM
When you judge, you judge yourself. God is the only judge. So to all you prosecutors and judges be prepared for your turn when you meet the almighty. There are 3 sides to a story. In the end God will get the final say. Spend more time doing service leaderships than ruining peoples lives.
Posted by: ask God for Forgiveness | June 28, 2007 at 08:36 PM
I think that it is a terrible day for Alabamians. It is sad that we spent so much time on a case that was not worthy it. I think that both Sigel man, and Scrushy are the victims. Why should they be punished for being a Democrat. It is sad that Alabama had to get an African American to take on the case. It only made the prosecutor look ignorant. I am not a Democratic nor a Republican. I believe that this case was brought about because of the Republicans looking to prove something. Look at how many times the President has visited this state. I know that him and the governor had a lot to do with the sentencing. I pray that the Republicans do find God because it appears that they think that they are God. I will make sure that I help campaign to get the Republicans out of office. The government in this state is very corrupt. Look at how much money we spend on unnecessary things in the state. Governor Riley needs to look at what he has done positive for Alabama. I’m not talking about bringing auto plants to Alabama. Those Auto plants only made us Alabamians look like we were back in the cotton and farming days. The time that he has spend in office really does show why we rank so low compared to most states. Don Sigleman really does love Alabama and devoted his time doing positive things for Alabama. He was and still is about educating Alabamians. Justice was not served. Every time Alabama takes a step[ forward, we take another step back.
Governor Sigelman you will always be my governor. God will never but more on you than you can bare. I love you and you will always be a positive role model to me and my family. We love you and will keep you in our prayers.
Posted by: Juanita | June 28, 2007 at 08:25 PM
To Disgusted and liberals,
Let’s talk about New Orleans.
First why did Mayor Nagin and the Governor sell the equipment or use the money that was given to them by the Federal Government to help take care of the levy system. Why did they not take the lead and evacuate the people who were stranded. How about confiscating personal firearms from law abiding citizens and leaving them defenseless against the scum that was left, or the scum who fired on the relief workers to include military transports?
Maybe you ought to have thought before you used New Orleans as an example?
Now for the witch hunt. Despite the evidence you still deny their guilt? You do need help, and their are doctors to help you!
Let me see, Sigelman sells Alabama land at less than market price in the past to one of his friends close to Mobile and I might add without cutting the timber first either-- that cost the stats millions of dollars and do we even need to talk about our devout church going HealthSouth man, please spare me the drivel you spout out.
They got caught and I applaud this. Next they need to go after the State Legislature for voting themselves a 60% raise while they double dip doing other jobs, and they don't make any money.
My heart bleeds for them. Find another job, oh but I forgot in this job you can steal legally.
You liberals need to get of the soap box and earn a living like the normal people!
Posted by: Infantry | June 28, 2007 at 07:59 PM
Why would you not feel sorry for Leslie? What has she ever done to YOU?
Posted by: Nikki | June 28, 2007 at 07:44 PM
anti siegelman? no, I voted for him. I am actually anti corruption. Lifelong democrat here. just sullied and sad that people I knew and trusted not only lied to me but lied to everybody else around them. I do agree about the 4 wheeler to payne. By the way, I seem to remember mervyn nabors providing airplanes and several hundred thousand dollars to folsom in 94 or so. for the record, dont call me anti siegelman. I am anti corruption. siegelman left me, i didnt leave him. I feel sorry for lori but not for leslie. I feel the most sorrow for Alabama. Why do we keep electing thieves?
Posted by: claude smith | June 28, 2007 at 07:40 PM
Justice Justice !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, Great Job Judge. Don you have plenty of time to rethink your greedy mind . Richard your the bottom of scum I hope you get the Proffessional help you need in Prison . Alabama we must move on Guy Hunt, These Two Scum bags. Gov. Riley please take alabama back up from this black eye these 3 scums bags did to this state. Guy , Don , Richard. May god take control of your evil minds. Richard can you now take your attitude to prison and get an attitude adjustment now !!!. God please have mercy on these two men. God please help their families through this. Alabama we can now move on !!!
Posted by: Geoffrey Craik | June 28, 2007 at 07:31 PM
In fact, I've heard tale that Claude may be a 3d cousin of the Rove family, and has gotten a courtesy copy of Karl's coursebook entitled "Politics of Destruction 101."
Posted by: FlynOintment | June 28, 2007 at 07:12 PM
Because Claude seems to be anti-everything -- A bitter man who takes pleasure in other's pains.
Posted by: FlynOintment | June 28, 2007 at 07:08 PM
Claude-
Interesting. I just did the Google search you recommended and found it interesting. I would note, however, that the first item on the search said Nabors had settled with the SEC for civil penalties (i.e., fines and a ban from serving as director, etc.). Also, I just checked last year's FCPA reports for Folsom on the SOS website and can't find Nabors. When did he contribute? Just curious how an anti-Siegelman poster came up with that information (if it is indeed correct) so quickly.
Posted by: Payne | June 28, 2007 at 07:05 PM
j. mervyn nabors is/was a large folsom donor. he had a company in bham called american sterilizer or something like that. he left alabama for florida and last anyone heard, the SEC had him on securities fraud. apples dont fall far from the tree. Siegelman, Scrushy, Nabors, perhaps will all be in the same penitentiary. just do a google or edgar search on j mervyn nabors. see for yourself.
Posted by: claude smith | June 28, 2007 at 06:39 PM
It looks like the Judge might go easier on Scrushy than Siegelman...
Posted by: suprised | June 28, 2007 at 06:38 PM