Janet Arvizo Charged With Fraud

The above title, frankly, should hold no surprises for anyone who has followed the trial of Michael Jackson.

Janet Arvizo, mother of Jackson's accuser, made absolutely no friends in the court room during her testimony.

She was exposed as a "grifter" and scam artist who defrauded J C Penny and others. Indeed, when the allegation about welfare fruad was raised during the trial, she adopted the fifth amendment.

Now she has been charged with welfare fraud by prosecutors, who say that she lied about her finances when she applied for public assistance.

Los Angeles District Attorney's spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons said:

"These charges are the result of a very careful investigation of allegations that she basically lied to receive aid. We felt the evidence was sufficient to file these counts".

Prosecutors accuse Janet of defrauding the welfare system out $18K.

She could, if convicted, face more than five years in prison.

Jackson's attorney, Tom Mesereau said Jackson had been informed of the charges.

Quote:

"I have always maintained that the case against Michael Jackson was a fraud and a disgrace and these charges confirm that. We brought this information to District Attorney Sneddon early on in the case hoping that he would dismiss the charges against Michael Jackson. Unfortunately he was stubborn and denied our request."