The charge of felony welfare fraud against Janet Arvizo, the mother of the boy who accused Michael Jackson of sexual abuse, was reduced on Wednesday to a misdemeanor and is eventually expected to be expunged.
Arvizo pleaded no contest (guilty), last November, to receiving fraudulent welfare payments.
Her lawyer, Rayford Fountain, said that she had paid over $8,600 in restitution and completed more than 150 hours of community service.
Fountain asked that she be placed on informal probation for 30 days to allow her to pay a court fine, and said he would then ask for the charge to be dismissed and expunged.
Showing posts with label Janet Arvizo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Janet Arvizo. Show all posts
Friday, August 03, 2007
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Janet Arvizo To Stand Trial
Janet Arvizo, whose son accused Michael Jackson of child molestation in 2003, will be standing trial for welfare fraud and perjury in Los Angeles.
Arvizo waived her right to a preliminary hearing in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Friday.
She is charged with accepting about $8,000 in welfare cheques, despite having over $30,000 in her bank account.
Ironically this alleged fraud was unearthed during the Jackson trial, when Arvizo refused to answer questions about her personal finances and pleaded the Fifth Amendment.
She also managed to piss almost everyone off in the court, with her attitude and behaviour.
I doubt that the diehard Jackson fans will be too upset to hear that she is standing trial.
Arvizo waived her right to a preliminary hearing in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Friday.
She is charged with accepting about $8,000 in welfare cheques, despite having over $30,000 in her bank account.
Ironically this alleged fraud was unearthed during the Jackson trial, when Arvizo refused to answer questions about her personal finances and pleaded the Fifth Amendment.
She also managed to piss almost everyone off in the court, with her attitude and behaviour.
I doubt that the diehard Jackson fans will be too upset to hear that she is standing trial.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Janet Jackson In Court
Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) went to court again yesterday.
This time, instead of being a witness for the prosecution, she was appearing on her own behalf to enter not guilty pleas to charges of welfare fraud.
You will doubtless recall that she is the mother of Gavin Arvizo who unsuccessfully accused Michael Jackson of molestation.
Arvizo was arrested on August 23, and was arraigned a day ahead of schedule.
She pleaded innocent to five felony charges, one count of aid by misrepresentation and four for committing perjury by false application of aid. The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in state prison.
She was released on her own recognisance, and ordered to return to court on October 28.
She is accused of defrauding the state of $19K in welfare payments, from 2001 to 2003. Prosecutors allege that she failed to report a six-figure lawsuit settlement, as well as rent assistance from her future second husband, then her boyfriend.
Doubtless Michael Jackson and his fans will be hoping that justice will be done.
This time, instead of being a witness for the prosecution, she was appearing on her own behalf to enter not guilty pleas to charges of welfare fraud.
You will doubtless recall that she is the mother of Gavin Arvizo who unsuccessfully accused Michael Jackson of molestation.
Arvizo was arrested on August 23, and was arraigned a day ahead of schedule.
She pleaded innocent to five felony charges, one count of aid by misrepresentation and four for committing perjury by false application of aid. The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in state prison.
She was released on her own recognisance, and ordered to return to court on October 28.
She is accused of defrauding the state of $19K in welfare payments, from 2001 to 2003. Prosecutors allege that she failed to report a six-figure lawsuit settlement, as well as rent assistance from her future second husband, then her boyfriend.
Doubtless Michael Jackson and his fans will be hoping that justice will be done.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
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."
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."
Friday, June 03, 2005
Defence Concludes
In the closing arguments of the Michael Jackson trial, Tom Mesereau for the defence reiterated his claim that Janet Arvizo coached Gavin to lie under oath in order to extort Michael Jackson.
The defence team highlighted discrepancies in the testimony by Gavin, his two siblings and their mother. They pointed out that the Arvizos kept returning to Neverland, and had plenty of opportunities to call for help, if indeed they had been held against their will.
The jury will now begin their deliberations.
The clock is ticking, the media hold their breath.
The defence team highlighted discrepancies in the testimony by Gavin, his two siblings and their mother. They pointed out that the Arvizos kept returning to Neverland, and had plenty of opportunities to call for help, if indeed they had been held against their will.
The jury will now begin their deliberations.
The clock is ticking, the media hold their breath.
Defence Failed
The prosecution yesterday accused the defence of failing in their task of exonerating Michael Jackson in his trial.
They stated that Michael Jackson targets vulnerable boys to bring them "into the world of the forbidden,".
Deputy District Attorney, Ron Zonen, said that the defence failed to keep promises made to the jury in opening statements; the defence's only strategy had been to attack the credibility of Janet Arvizo.
Zonen said that that Jackson has a pattern of going after susceptible boys and when he brings children to his Neverland ranch he separates them from parents and authority and fills their days with candy, video games and other amusements.
This is part of the "grooming process", he said.
He said that Jackson lowered their inhibitions by showing them pornography, appearing naked before them and simulating a sex act with a mannequin.
Quote:
"This case is about the exploitation and sexual abuse of a 13-year-old cancer survivor by an international celebrity,".
Zonen reminded the jury that the defence had said that Janet Arvizo had asked Mike Tyson, Adam Sandler and Jim Carey for money.
Quote:
"Did you see any of them come in here?...There's no evidence she received anything from the three of them."
Zonen said Mesereau also failed to prove that Janet Arvizo tried to negotiate for money, during the making of the rebuttal video, and that she tried to use Gavin's illness to make money.
Zonen said that Jackson never visited Gavin when he was in hospital in Los Angeles in 2000.
Zonen quoted from a letter written by Jackson to Gavin:
"But you have to really be honest in your heart that I AM your DAD and will take good care of you. DAD."
Another note said:
"I want you to have a great time in Florida. I'm very happy to be your DADDY. Blacket, Prince and Paris are your brothers and sister. Love Dad."
Zonen noted that Jackson had misspelled his son's (Blanket) nickname.
He also said that Jackson had urged the Arvizos to come to Florida, contradicting defence suggestions that the family had found out Jackson was there and wanted to get to him.
They stated that Michael Jackson targets vulnerable boys to bring them "into the world of the forbidden,".
Deputy District Attorney, Ron Zonen, said that the defence failed to keep promises made to the jury in opening statements; the defence's only strategy had been to attack the credibility of Janet Arvizo.
Zonen said that that Jackson has a pattern of going after susceptible boys and when he brings children to his Neverland ranch he separates them from parents and authority and fills their days with candy, video games and other amusements.
This is part of the "grooming process", he said.
He said that Jackson lowered their inhibitions by showing them pornography, appearing naked before them and simulating a sex act with a mannequin.
Quote:
"This case is about the exploitation and sexual abuse of a 13-year-old cancer survivor by an international celebrity,".
Zonen reminded the jury that the defence had said that Janet Arvizo had asked Mike Tyson, Adam Sandler and Jim Carey for money.
Quote:
"Did you see any of them come in here?...There's no evidence she received anything from the three of them."
Zonen said Mesereau also failed to prove that Janet Arvizo tried to negotiate for money, during the making of the rebuttal video, and that she tried to use Gavin's illness to make money.
Zonen said that Jackson never visited Gavin when he was in hospital in Los Angeles in 2000.
Zonen quoted from a letter written by Jackson to Gavin:
"But you have to really be honest in your heart that I AM your DAD and will take good care of you. DAD."
Another note said:
"I want you to have a great time in Florida. I'm very happy to be your DADDY. Blacket, Prince and Paris are your brothers and sister. Love Dad."
Zonen noted that Jackson had misspelled his son's (Blanket) nickname.
He also said that Jackson had urged the Arvizos to come to Florida, contradicting defence suggestions that the family had found out Jackson was there and wanted to get to him.
Friday, May 27, 2005
Prosecution Try To Salvage Arvizos
The Prosecution in the Michael Jackson trial spent yesterday trying to salvage the tattered reputation of the Arvizo clan.
They called witnesses to try to rehabilitate the Arvizo's reputation, and to rebut the accusation that the Arvizos received a $152K settlement based on fraudulent claims of assault and battery from J.C. Penney security guards.
The defence claim that the bruises that Janet received were from her abusive ex -husband.
A Kaiser Hospital representative testified that Janet Arvizo walked into the emergency room at 1:11 a.m. on Aug. 28 for treatment. The implication was that there was no time for her husband to go home and beat her up before she showed up at the hospital.
However, jurors weren't given definitive answers about whether her bruises were fraud or fact.
The medical questionnaire filled out by the jailer, indicated that she refused medical treatment and did not exhibit any symptoms that suggested a need for emergency care.
The emergency room records, according to the witness, noted only that she was discharged at 4:15 a.m. in "good condition," that her X-rays were "normal".
It will take more than that to salvage the Arvizo family name.
They called witnesses to try to rehabilitate the Arvizo's reputation, and to rebut the accusation that the Arvizos received a $152K settlement based on fraudulent claims of assault and battery from J.C. Penney security guards.
The defence claim that the bruises that Janet received were from her abusive ex -husband.
A Kaiser Hospital representative testified that Janet Arvizo walked into the emergency room at 1:11 a.m. on Aug. 28 for treatment. The implication was that there was no time for her husband to go home and beat her up before she showed up at the hospital.
However, jurors weren't given definitive answers about whether her bruises were fraud or fact.
The medical questionnaire filled out by the jailer, indicated that she refused medical treatment and did not exhibit any symptoms that suggested a need for emergency care.
The emergency room records, according to the witness, noted only that she was discharged at 4:15 a.m. in "good condition," that her X-rays were "normal".
It will take more than that to salvage the Arvizo family name.
Gavin's Video
Judge Rodney Melville has agreed to show the jury in the Michael Jackson trial a videotape of a July 2003 police interview of Gavin Arvizo, to show that his story has been consistent.
The defence lawyers said they that would then want to question Arvizo about the tape during the defence rebuttal. The said they may also want to question Janet, his mother, that will be fun!
The defence also want to question a psychologist who interviewed Arvizo, and the lawyer who sent him to the psychologist.
As the old saying goes, it's not over until the fat lady sings!
The defence lawyers said they that would then want to question Arvizo about the tape during the defence rebuttal. The said they may also want to question Janet, his mother, that will be fun!
The defence also want to question a psychologist who interviewed Arvizo, and the lawyer who sent him to the psychologist.
As the old saying goes, it's not over until the fat lady sings!
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Janet The Welfare Cheat
The defence team in Michael Jackson's trial effectively put Janet Arvizo on trial yesterday.
They brought in a welfare worker, who said that Janet Arvizo did not disclose on a welfare application that her family received funds from a $152K lawsuit settlement just 10 days earlier.
The implication of this, and earlier tactics by the defence, is clear; they are painting a picture of Janet as being a money grabbing, lying, cheating manipulator.
Janet Arvizo's former sister-in-law also appeared, she said that her attempts to hold blood drives for Gavin were contemptuously dismissed by Janet.
Quote:
"She told me that she didn't need my (expletive) blood...that she needed money."
An accountant also gave testimony that the Arvizos notched up $7K in shopping and dining expenditure, during their 1 week "captivity".
It is very clear that the "captivity" story is bullshit.
I must question how it is that the prosecution were dumb enough to allow themselves to be duped by Janet Arvizo on this particular part of the case.
They brought in a welfare worker, who said that Janet Arvizo did not disclose on a welfare application that her family received funds from a $152K lawsuit settlement just 10 days earlier.
The implication of this, and earlier tactics by the defence, is clear; they are painting a picture of Janet as being a money grabbing, lying, cheating manipulator.
Janet Arvizo's former sister-in-law also appeared, she said that her attempts to hold blood drives for Gavin were contemptuously dismissed by Janet.
Quote:
"She told me that she didn't need my (expletive) blood...that she needed money."
An accountant also gave testimony that the Arvizos notched up $7K in shopping and dining expenditure, during their 1 week "captivity".
It is very clear that the "captivity" story is bullshit.
I must question how it is that the prosecution were dumb enough to allow themselves to be duped by Janet Arvizo on this particular part of the case.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Jackson The Angel
Dear oh dear, someone in this trial has certainly been telling "porkies".
Azja Pryor, a Hollywood casting agent, implied yesterday that the "porkie" teller was Janet Arvizo.
It seems that Arvizo was, despite her earlier testimony, keen to appear in a video rebutting the Bashir documentary; because she thought Jackson was an "angel".
Pryor testified that Janet Arvizo was so horrified by Bashir's documentary, that she offered to be filmed denying claims that Jackson had an inappropriate relationship with her son Gavin.
Pryor said:
"She (Janet) was very anxious to tell the world this beautiful friendship (between Jackson and Gavin) was nothing more than they saw."
Janet allegedly said of Jackson:
"It was something to the effect of what a great man he is. He is an angel. His love is great."
So, someone has certainly been lying.
Once it is sorted out for sure who that is; I hope they are charged with perjury.
Azja Pryor, a Hollywood casting agent, implied yesterday that the "porkie" teller was Janet Arvizo.
It seems that Arvizo was, despite her earlier testimony, keen to appear in a video rebutting the Bashir documentary; because she thought Jackson was an "angel".
Pryor testified that Janet Arvizo was so horrified by Bashir's documentary, that she offered to be filmed denying claims that Jackson had an inappropriate relationship with her son Gavin.
Pryor said:
"She (Janet) was very anxious to tell the world this beautiful friendship (between Jackson and Gavin) was nothing more than they saw."
Janet allegedly said of Jackson:
"It was something to the effect of what a great man he is. He is an angel. His love is great."
So, someone has certainly been lying.
Once it is sorted out for sure who that is; I hope they are charged with perjury.
Judge Bars King
Judge Rodney Melville has barred Larry King from giving testimony in the Michael Jackson trial.
Jackson's lawyers wanted King to tell jurors about comments made to him by Larry Feldman, a lawyer who once represented Gavin Arvizo, about Janet Arvizo.
However, Judge Melville said:
"At this point I don't see any reason to call Mr King to testify,".
The judge said the account of the conversation that King had with Feldman was irrelevant.
King allegedly said that Feldman had told him:
"He just said she (the mother) is a whacko...He said she is in it for the money."
Jackson's lawyers wanted King to tell jurors about comments made to him by Larry Feldman, a lawyer who once represented Gavin Arvizo, about Janet Arvizo.
However, Judge Melville said:
"At this point I don't see any reason to call Mr King to testify,".
The judge said the account of the conversation that King had with Feldman was irrelevant.
King allegedly said that Feldman had told him:
"He just said she (the mother) is a whacko...He said she is in it for the money."
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Gavin Arvizo Denies Sex
Irene Peters, a social worker from the LA County Department of Children and Family Services, gave testimony at the Michael Jackson trial yesterday.
She said that she had met privately with Gavin Arvizo and his family, during the time they claim they were held prisoner by Jackson, and they praised Jackson and denied any sexual abuse.
Peters said that she had met Janet Arvizo, and her three children in February 2003, after the Martin Bashir documentary was shown on TV.
Quote:
"I asked him if he had ever been sexually abused by Michael Jackson and he became upset. He said, 'Everybody thinks Michael Jackson sexually abused me. He never touched me'..."
Adding that Gavin told her Jackson "was very kind to him and treated him like a father."
Peters also said that she separately interviewed Janet Arvizo, Gavin's brother Star and his older sister, and all of them praised Jackson. She said Mrs Arvizo even gave Jackson credit for her son's victory over cancer.
It seems that Janet Arvizo initially asked if the social worker could do her interview at Jackson's estate.
So much for being held captive!
Peters said:
"She denied all allegations of general neglect...I asked her about the relationship with Michael Jackson. She went on to say he was like a father to her children and she felt he was responsible for helping (Gavin) to survive his cancer, for his cancer to go into remission. I asked her if the kids ever slept in Michael Jackson's room and she said no, that never happened."
Peters said that the Arvizo family never mentioned being held against their will.
She said that she had met privately with Gavin Arvizo and his family, during the time they claim they were held prisoner by Jackson, and they praised Jackson and denied any sexual abuse.
Peters said that she had met Janet Arvizo, and her three children in February 2003, after the Martin Bashir documentary was shown on TV.
Quote:
"I asked him if he had ever been sexually abused by Michael Jackson and he became upset. He said, 'Everybody thinks Michael Jackson sexually abused me. He never touched me'..."
Adding that Gavin told her Jackson "was very kind to him and treated him like a father."
Peters also said that she separately interviewed Janet Arvizo, Gavin's brother Star and his older sister, and all of them praised Jackson. She said Mrs Arvizo even gave Jackson credit for her son's victory over cancer.
It seems that Janet Arvizo initially asked if the social worker could do her interview at Jackson's estate.
So much for being held captive!
Peters said:
"She denied all allegations of general neglect...I asked her about the relationship with Michael Jackson. She went on to say he was like a father to her children and she felt he was responsible for helping (Gavin) to survive his cancer, for his cancer to go into remission. I asked her if the kids ever slept in Michael Jackson's room and she said no, that never happened."
Peters said that the Arvizo family never mentioned being held against their will.
Quasi Sex
Angel Vivanco, Michael Jackson's former chef, was not allowed to testify during the trial about how Davellin Arvizo (the sister of Gavin) described her mother.
Vivanco allegedly formed a "quasi-sexual" relationship, whatever that is, with Davellin in 2003; she was 16 at the time.
I guess if they use the phrase "quasi sexual", it means he can't be prosecuted for having sex with a minor.
The defence team had been hoping that Vivanco would testify that Davellin reportedly told him she had described her mother as a "psycho mom", and "not okay in the head".
I don't think that the defence don't need to worry about that too much; the jury and the rest of the world were well able to see that for themselves, when Janet Arvizo gave testimony a few weeks ago.
Vivanco was able to testify that Gavin and his younger brother were spoilt little brats, who demanded alcohol in their drinks.
Quote:
"If I didn't do it, he would tell Michael and I would get fired,".
Vivanco allegedly formed a "quasi-sexual" relationship, whatever that is, with Davellin in 2003; she was 16 at the time.
I guess if they use the phrase "quasi sexual", it means he can't be prosecuted for having sex with a minor.
The defence team had been hoping that Vivanco would testify that Davellin reportedly told him she had described her mother as a "psycho mom", and "not okay in the head".
I don't think that the defence don't need to worry about that too much; the jury and the rest of the world were well able to see that for themselves, when Janet Arvizo gave testimony a few weeks ago.
Vivanco was able to testify that Gavin and his younger brother were spoilt little brats, who demanded alcohol in their drinks.
Quote:
"If I didn't do it, he would tell Michael and I would get fired,".
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Larry King Live
US television host Larry King is to take the witness stand at Michael Jackson's child molestation trial on Thursday.
King will be asked by the defence about a claim that a lawyer, who once represented Gavin Arvizo and Janet Arvizo, told him he didn't believe their claims against Jackson.
The defence has claimed in a memo to the court that publisher Michael Viner heard attorney Larry Feldman make the comments about Gavin and Janet Arvizo during a 2004 breakfast meeting with King at a Los Angeles cafe.
Feldman has denied ever making the comments, and said he had never met Viner who claims he sat with King and Feldman at the breakfast meeting.
King will be asked by the defence about a claim that a lawyer, who once represented Gavin Arvizo and Janet Arvizo, told him he didn't believe their claims against Jackson.
The defence has claimed in a memo to the court that publisher Michael Viner heard attorney Larry Feldman make the comments about Gavin and Janet Arvizo during a 2004 breakfast meeting with King at a Los Angeles cafe.
Feldman has denied ever making the comments, and said he had never met Viner who claims he sat with King and Feldman at the breakfast meeting.
Rude Bastards
Witnesses in the Michael Jackson trial are painting a picture of the Arvizo family as being a bunch of rude, demanding bastards.
The witnesses certainly didn't feel that the Arvizos looked like they were being held hostage.
Seemingly "f--king Cheetos" were one of the Arvizo's more pressing concerns, during their sojourn at Neverland.
The witnesses included an ex-spa owner, a local dentist and a former Neverland kitchen worker.
Carole McCoy, the spa owner, said that Janet Arvizo didn't appear to be a kidnap victim the day she visited her salon for brow wax, lip wax, face wax, leg wax and bikini wax. The costs of this overhaul to the Arvizo body came it at $140.
Needless to say the account differs with that provided by Janet Arvizo, who claimed that she only had a leg wax.
Additionally Janet had said that a camera crew had trailed her to the appointment; McCoy said that she saw no cameras.
Neither, oddly enough, did Janet say that she was being held prisoner during her waxing.
Security guard Shane Meredith testified that he caught Gavin Arvizo and his younger brother with a half-empty bottle of wine. Maid Maria Gomez said she found porn mags in a backpack that she believed belonged to Gavin's brother.
Ex-chef's assistant Angel Vivanco said that Gavin demanded snack foods--"Give me the f--king Cheetos".
Vivanco said:
"He told me if I didn't do it [pour alcohol into a milkshake], he would tell Michael and I would get fired,".
Vivanco then went on to say that Gavin's sister called her mother a "psycho mom," spoke ill of her brothers and hinted that her mother and future stepfather were planning "something big" with regard to Jackson.
Dr. Jean Seamount testified about tending to the braces of Gavin and his brother on Feb. 24, 2003, again when these two were meant to be being held captive.
The doctor noted that, despite the fact that everyone hates going to the dentist, no-one tried to do a runner during the appointment.
Seamount did encounter problems with Janet Arvizo:
"[The mother] was angry at another orthodontist who had placed the braces, and she wanted the braces removed so she could send [them] back in the mail to the orthodontist,".
Seamount described Gavin as being "undisciplined." Seamount's assistant, Tiffany Haynes, called him "rude."
Again, there was no sighting of the alleged film crew trailing the Arvizo clan around.
It seems to me that the jury can conclude from this that the story about the Arvizos being held captive is, to use an olde English phrase, "utter bollocks".
The witnesses certainly didn't feel that the Arvizos looked like they were being held hostage.
Seemingly "f--king Cheetos" were one of the Arvizo's more pressing concerns, during their sojourn at Neverland.
The witnesses included an ex-spa owner, a local dentist and a former Neverland kitchen worker.
Carole McCoy, the spa owner, said that Janet Arvizo didn't appear to be a kidnap victim the day she visited her salon for brow wax, lip wax, face wax, leg wax and bikini wax. The costs of this overhaul to the Arvizo body came it at $140.
Needless to say the account differs with that provided by Janet Arvizo, who claimed that she only had a leg wax.
Additionally Janet had said that a camera crew had trailed her to the appointment; McCoy said that she saw no cameras.
Neither, oddly enough, did Janet say that she was being held prisoner during her waxing.
Security guard Shane Meredith testified that he caught Gavin Arvizo and his younger brother with a half-empty bottle of wine. Maid Maria Gomez said she found porn mags in a backpack that she believed belonged to Gavin's brother.
Ex-chef's assistant Angel Vivanco said that Gavin demanded snack foods--"Give me the f--king Cheetos".
Vivanco said:
"He told me if I didn't do it [pour alcohol into a milkshake], he would tell Michael and I would get fired,".
Vivanco then went on to say that Gavin's sister called her mother a "psycho mom," spoke ill of her brothers and hinted that her mother and future stepfather were planning "something big" with regard to Jackson.
Dr. Jean Seamount testified about tending to the braces of Gavin and his brother on Feb. 24, 2003, again when these two were meant to be being held captive.
The doctor noted that, despite the fact that everyone hates going to the dentist, no-one tried to do a runner during the appointment.
Seamount did encounter problems with Janet Arvizo:
"[The mother] was angry at another orthodontist who had placed the braces, and she wanted the braces removed so she could send [them] back in the mail to the orthodontist,".
Seamount described Gavin as being "undisciplined." Seamount's assistant, Tiffany Haynes, called him "rude."
Again, there was no sighting of the alleged film crew trailing the Arvizo clan around.
It seems to me that the jury can conclude from this that the story about the Arvizos being held captive is, to use an olde English phrase, "utter bollocks".
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Au Contraire
The witnesses who testified yesterday in the Michael Jackson trial, contradicted the testimony of earlier witnesses.
They stated that they never saw Jackson act improperly with children at Neverland.
Joe Marcus, the ranch manager, and four other witnesses gave their testimony at the behest of the defence team.
Marcus said that Gavin Arvizo and his family never complained of mistreatment, and were free to leave at any time. Janet Arvizo "seemed to be just enjoying herself," he said.
He noted that Gavin and his brother were "destructive", but were "having fun".
Violet Silva, head of Neverland security in 2003, said that she never saw anything "illegal or inappropriate", nor did she have "no personal knowledge" of kids drinking alcohol at the ranch; that last form of words is well crafted.
Silva said that Gavin and his younger brother found the ignition keys in Jackson's Lincoln Navigator and a ranch van, and took them for joyrides on ranch roads. This was one reason for them not being allowed off the property, she said.
Francine Contreras, a former housemaid, said that the prosecution witness Adrian McManus stole clothes, watches and toys from Jackson.
She herself had been fired, not for stealing but for trespassing.
They stated that they never saw Jackson act improperly with children at Neverland.
Joe Marcus, the ranch manager, and four other witnesses gave their testimony at the behest of the defence team.
Marcus said that Gavin Arvizo and his family never complained of mistreatment, and were free to leave at any time. Janet Arvizo "seemed to be just enjoying herself," he said.
He noted that Gavin and his brother were "destructive", but were "having fun".
Violet Silva, head of Neverland security in 2003, said that she never saw anything "illegal or inappropriate", nor did she have "no personal knowledge" of kids drinking alcohol at the ranch; that last form of words is well crafted.
Silva said that Gavin and his younger brother found the ignition keys in Jackson's Lincoln Navigator and a ranch van, and took them for joyrides on ranch roads. This was one reason for them not being allowed off the property, she said.
Francine Contreras, a former housemaid, said that the prosecution witness Adrian McManus stole clothes, watches and toys from Jackson.
She herself had been fired, not for stealing but for trespassing.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Video Shown
ABC News has obtained and shown the videotape that prosecution claims shows that Michael Jackson's associates were keeping track of the Arvizos.
The videotaping of the Arvizos was conducted in the days following their departure from Neverland. Private detective Ed Santiago is claiming that he and a friend were hired to watch and follow the Arvizos, and to make sure that Janet Arvizo returned to Neverland and did not try to sell her story to tabloids.
He is quoted as saying:
"It is my understanding that there was some concern about her stability, her emotional stability, and her movements and the people she was interacting with, specifically the tabloids,".
The tape has been shown in court.
The videotaping of the Arvizos was conducted in the days following their departure from Neverland. Private detective Ed Santiago is claiming that he and a friend were hired to watch and follow the Arvizos, and to make sure that Janet Arvizo returned to Neverland and did not try to sell her story to tabloids.
He is quoted as saying:
"It is my understanding that there was some concern about her stability, her emotional stability, and her movements and the people she was interacting with, specifically the tabloids,".
The tape has been shown in court.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Janet's Story Takes a Hammering
Hamid Moslehi, Michael Jackson's videographer, gave testimony at Michael Jackson's trial yesterday.
He testified that Gavin Arvizo, his brother and sister were at his house for two or three hours before the rebuttal video was taped. However, he never saw them rehearsing.
He added that Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) was there for about an hour before the taping, and that he did not see her reading or rehearsing either.
This is important, because it contradicts Janet's story that they were working to a script.
In fact, Moslehi said that he did not see anyone coaching Janet at all.
Moslehi said that when he shot the rebuttal video, and other footage to be used in a TV show defending Jackson, Dieter Wiesner and Ronald Konitzer (associates of Jackson) promised him a percentage of net profits.
However, Moslehi said that he has received nothing; and has a law suit pending against Jackson.
Rather bizarrely Moslehi said that he loaned Janet $2K, because he felt sorry for her.
He testified that Gavin Arvizo, his brother and sister were at his house for two or three hours before the rebuttal video was taped. However, he never saw them rehearsing.
He added that Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) was there for about an hour before the taping, and that he did not see her reading or rehearsing either.
This is important, because it contradicts Janet's story that they were working to a script.
In fact, Moslehi said that he did not see anyone coaching Janet at all.
Moslehi said that when he shot the rebuttal video, and other footage to be used in a TV show defending Jackson, Dieter Wiesner and Ronald Konitzer (associates of Jackson) promised him a percentage of net profits.
However, Moslehi said that he has received nothing; and has a law suit pending against Jackson.
Rather bizarrely Moslehi said that he loaned Janet $2K, because he felt sorry for her.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Janet Keeps Schtum
Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) made yet another appearance on the witness stand, in Michael Jackson's trial yesterday, I honestly thought that we had seen the last of her!
In her final curtain call she cited attorney-client privilege, by refusing to say whether she was represented by a lawyer during the time period in which she and her children were allegedly held captive by Jackson.
Thomas Mesereau, for the defence, asked Janet if she had been represented by attorney Michael Manning from 2001 to 2004 re issues involving her divorce.
Janet said that Manning had helped her on several issues involving the divorce. Seemingly he worked for her for free; and that as a result she was, in her words, one of his low-priority clients.
Mesereau asked Janet if Manning was her attorney at the time of the alleged captivity, she asked:
"Is that attorney-client privilege?"
Mesereau dropped the question when she cited privilege.
In her final curtain call she cited attorney-client privilege, by refusing to say whether she was represented by a lawyer during the time period in which she and her children were allegedly held captive by Jackson.
Thomas Mesereau, for the defence, asked Janet if she had been represented by attorney Michael Manning from 2001 to 2004 re issues involving her divorce.
Janet said that Manning had helped her on several issues involving the divorce. Seemingly he worked for her for free; and that as a result she was, in her words, one of his low-priority clients.
Mesereau asked Janet if Manning was her attorney at the time of the alleged captivity, she asked:
"Is that attorney-client privilege?"
Mesereau dropped the question when she cited privilege.
Friday, April 22, 2005
Abuse Expert Barred
Judge Rodney Melville has barred evidence from a domestic abuse expert, in the Michael Jackson trial, as to why there are contradictions in the testimony of Gavin Arvizo's mother.
The fact that she's nuts, and lying, may be two possible reasons.
The prosecution wished to call a specialist in the effects of spousal abuse, to explain to jurors why Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) never called the police during the time that she claims she was held captive by Jackson and his cronies.
They told Judge Melville that the expert would talk about battered women's syndrome, that would also help explain why Janet Jackson lied under oath about details of her relationship with her ex-husband who she claims beat her.
The prosecution state that Janet's behaviour was "counter-intuitive".
I would be more sympathetic to this line of reasoning, if Janet had not proven herself perfectly capable of extracting $150K from JC Penney for alleged abuse by their security staff.
It seems to me that if she was capable of that, then she was quite capable of taking care of herself when allegedly "under house arrest" at Neverland; ie she would have called the police.
However, I am not a psychiatrist.
Judge Melville ruled:
"I think this type of evidence is valuable in domestic abuse case, but I'm not going to allow it in this case...It may or may not explain her".
The fact that she's nuts, and lying, may be two possible reasons.
The prosecution wished to call a specialist in the effects of spousal abuse, to explain to jurors why Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) never called the police during the time that she claims she was held captive by Jackson and his cronies.
They told Judge Melville that the expert would talk about battered women's syndrome, that would also help explain why Janet Jackson lied under oath about details of her relationship with her ex-husband who she claims beat her.
The prosecution state that Janet's behaviour was "counter-intuitive".
I would be more sympathetic to this line of reasoning, if Janet had not proven herself perfectly capable of extracting $150K from JC Penney for alleged abuse by their security staff.
It seems to me that if she was capable of that, then she was quite capable of taking care of herself when allegedly "under house arrest" at Neverland; ie she would have called the police.
However, I am not a psychiatrist.
Judge Melville ruled:
"I think this type of evidence is valuable in domestic abuse case, but I'm not going to allow it in this case...It may or may not explain her".
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