SS, the comeback kids
By Wade Kwon
VESTAVIA HILLS — 27 OCT 2018 — Released earlier today from federal prison, Don Siegelman and Richard Scrushy received a warm welcome from dozens of supporters as they returned to the outside world. Siegelman and Scrushy both completed 12-year prison terms following their 2006 convictions on charges of bribery, conspiracy and fraud.
The pair shook hands with friends and made short statements at the rally, skipping media questions before exiting quietly. The rally featured a marching band and former investors in the men’s careers.
“I still intend to find out who was behind this conspiracy to ruin my life,” Siegelman said, visibly tired from the day’s travels.
“I have followed the teachings of the Lord and know that I am on the path to righteousness,” Scrushy said.
Scrushy made the most of his incarceration by continuing to build his ministry, started around the time of his first trial. Although unable to continue taping “Viewpoints,” syndicated reruns of his TV show grew throughout the South and Midwest. It is expected that the former Healthsouth CEO will step into a new role as TV evangelist from his new $10 million worship center in eastern Jefferson County.
Meanwhile, Siegelman has denied rumors of a return to politics. Instead, the former governor has offers to teach at the University of Alabama and Auburn, as well as serve on the boards of several auto manufacturers.
Last year, PACs formed to support a possible Scrushy/Siegelman ticket this year, with Scrushy drafted as a gubernatorial candidate. That campaign folded before it began, as legislators outlawed convicted felons from running for the state’s highest office.
While Siegelman reunited with his wife Lori, Scrushy departed with Bethlyn Richards, a 21-year-old intern from his ministry. Scrushy, who divorced his wife Leslie in 2008, described his companion as a “God-fearing Christian woman and devoted friend.”
Several supporters voiced encouragement at the return of the two fallen figures. “I know Mr. Scrushy sees the value in me as a person, not just a lowly shareholder,” said Margaret James, an investor who lost her life savings in the Healthsouth fraud scandal of 2003. “We forgive him and know he’ll do great things from the pulpit.”
Another attendee expressed similar wishes for Siegelman. “Don’s a fighter, and even prison couldn’t diminish my faith in his ideas and leadership,” said Stuart Dunston, who recalled voting for the candidate in each election. “If he had gotten his lottery running, maybe I’d be a trillionaire by now.”
