By Alabama Public Radio
Birmingham, AL – A jury will hear opening arguments on Tuesday from prosecutors and defense attorneys in the federal trial of former HealthSouth CEO Richard Scrushy. The 12-member jury and six alternates were chosen Monday. Prosecutors will argue that the HealthSouth founder conspired to overstate the company's earnings by more than $2.6 billion. Defense attorney Jim Parkman, meanwhile, says he'll tell jurors that Scrushy was not part of the conspiracy. Scrushy is named in a 58-count indictment that accuses him of fraud, conspiracy, obstruction of justice, perjury and other crimes. Prosecutors are asking for $278 million in Scrushy's personal assets. If convicted, the 52-year-old could face life in prison. He was fired as HealthSouth CEO almost two years ago.