MONTGOMERY, Ala., June 28 - U.S. District Judge Mark Fuller's voice shook just a little as he shot the middle to try and placate both sides Thursday night by sentencing former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman to seven years and four months in federal prison and former HealthSouth CEO to six years and 10 months.

He rejected appeals on the part of the defense to allow both defendants to remain out of jail pending an appeal, and the opportunity to go home with their families and get their affairs in order before voluntarily reporting to prison at a later date. He ordered them into the immediate custory of U.S. Marshalls, handcuffed, shackled, and taken to a federal prision in Atlanta.

"Governor Siegelman, there's no question you've done many great things, and I commend your 30 years of public service," Fuller said. The judge indicated he read the 720 letters sent him "by people of all walks of life" on Siegelman's behalf, including those with great wealth - and more humble beginnings - all of them with the same investment "in this great country."

He called it an "unpleasant responsibility" to have to impose the sentence, but he said: "We both took an oath. By your actions you have violated that oath."

Along with the Bush Justice Department prosecutors in this case, the judge claimed Siegelman and Scrushy damaged public trust in government, while the government's actions in this case may prove to be a worse violation by the time the investigation is all over.

Fuller showed little mercy for Siegelman, fining him $50,000, plus $181,325 in restitution, along with 500 hours of community service upon his release, which could come after six years and eight months, according to attorneys. Or he could have his time reduced by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta - or the three judge panel there could immediately order his release by throwing the tainted case out of court on appeal.

Judge Fuller also showed little mercy on Richard Scrushy - in spite of an impassioned appeal on behalf of his family and his god - fining him $150,000, due immediately, and ordering him to pay restitution of $267,000 along with 500 hours of community service upon his release.