Federal prosecutors ask appeals court to let convictions of HealthSouth founder stand

Federal prosecutors have asked an appeals court to uphold the convictions of HealthSouth founder Richard Scrushy and former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman, disputing claims that there was inadequate evidence to convict the two men and that the jury was tainted. Prosecutors disputed defense claims that the trial judge failed to adequately investigate e-mails purportedly sent by jurors discussing the case, calling public officials "scum" and pressuring another juror for a guilty verdict. Prosecutors alleged Scrushy bought a seat on the Alabama Certificate of Need Review Board with $500,000 in donations to Siegelman's lottery campaign. The board decides if hospitals can add new services.