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Judge Releases Infomercial Pitchman Kevin Trudeau From Jail

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Infomercial host Kevin Trudeau was expected to gain his freedom Thursday afternoon -- after spending the night behind bars, where he was questioned about his financial assets.

The judge had locked up Trudeau as an incentive for him to talk about his money. He still owes almost $38 million because the government said he made some false claims about his diet book and other things he has pitched.

Lawyers for the receiver said they spent three hours questioning Trudeau at the Metropolitan Correctional Center but told the judge he was less than forthcoming.

Trudeau, dressed in the orange jumpsuit of a federal prisoner, told the judge: "There's no hidden bank accounts with millions of dollars."

The TV pitchman made sure everyone knew his one night in federal jail was no picnic.

"No water. Hadn't eaten. I was tired. It was grueling, stressful," Trudeau said.

FTC attorney Jonathan Cohen told the court Thursday there is significant evidence Trudeau has not disclosed additional assets. The judge appeared to agree.

The judge told Trudeau: "You're saying you're broke, Mr. Trudeau, and it's hard to swallow."

Judge Releases Infomercial Pitchman Kevin Trudeau From Jail

Nevertheless, the judge ordered Trudeau released and told him to cooperate: "If I'm not satisfied," the judge said, "you may end up wearing the same color you're wearing right now."

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