Scrushy denies hiding assets

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - Former HealthSouth Corp. chief Richard Scrushy says allegations he has hidden his assets to avoid collection are "outrageous and ridiculous."

Scrushy lawyer Art Leach released the statement Friday, one day after lawyers for HealthSouth shareholders made the allegation in
court documents.

The documents claimed Scrushy has told people that he has some $600 million in accounts outside the United States. They also ask a
judge to freeze real estate assets that Scrushy has put in the name of others.

A judge ruling in a shareholder lawsuit filed on behalf of HealthSouth has ordered Scrushy to pay $2.8 billion for his role in a massive fraud at the company. Scrushy denies any wrongdoing, but the judge found him liable anyway.