Doubtless Michael Jackson will be amused to learn that he is not always on the receiving end of lawsuits.
This time the boot is most definitely on the other foot as the Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Office, which prosecuted Jackson last year, has had a lawsuit filed against it by Annette L. Reichart for back pay for work on developing a database of documents and images in the Michael Jackson child-molestation case.
Her lawyer, Brian Oxman, is reported to have said that Reichert was hired to create a searchable database of evidence for Santa Barbara County District Attorney Thomas Sneddon and his staff.
Oxman, who is rather interestingly an attorney for the Jackson family, said that Reichert performed her duties but was not fully compensated.
Reichert is allegedly owed over $40K, and deserves $100K more for giving up other work; at least that is Oxman's view.
DA Tom Sneddon retorted that Reichert worked on the prosecution's case for a period of time. However, she disappeared in the middle of the prosecution, "leaving us high and dry" he said.
Showing posts with label Tom Sneddon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tom Sneddon. Show all posts
Monday, June 05, 2006
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Michael Jackson Investigated for Drug Trafficking
It has been reported that police are investigating allegations that Michael Jackson has been trafficking prescription drugs, and that during a police raid that they have found traces of cocaine on his clothes.
Police are investigating allegations that Jackson smuggled prescription drugs from America to Bahrain, in order to maintain a 40 pill a day habit.
Former aides are alleging that Jackson is addicted to painkillers and anti-depressants, seemingly the drugs of choice of those in showbusiness.
Papers released by Santa Maria court note that Jackson's former security guard, Chris Carter, has claimed that Jackson is addicted to Xanax, an anti-anxiety drug.
Apparently a haul of prescription drugs was seized during the raid on Neverland in 2003, additionally traces of cocaine were allegedly found on Jackson's trousers.
The probe into the drug allegations is being led by Santa Barbara's district attorney, Tom Sneddon.
I suspect that Tom Sneddon won't be happy until Jackson is behind bars.
Police are investigating allegations that Jackson smuggled prescription drugs from America to Bahrain, in order to maintain a 40 pill a day habit.
Former aides are alleging that Jackson is addicted to painkillers and anti-depressants, seemingly the drugs of choice of those in showbusiness.
Papers released by Santa Maria court note that Jackson's former security guard, Chris Carter, has claimed that Jackson is addicted to Xanax, an anti-anxiety drug.
Apparently a haul of prescription drugs was seized during the raid on Neverland in 2003, additionally traces of cocaine were allegedly found on Jackson's trousers.
The probe into the drug allegations is being led by Santa Barbara's district attorney, Tom Sneddon.
I suspect that Tom Sneddon won't be happy until Jackson is behind bars.
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."
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Katherine Jackson Speaks Out
Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson, gave an interview to the Today show on MSNBC yesterday.
She said that the trial took everything out of Jackson, both physically and mentally.
Quote:
"One of the reasons why it devastated him, he would tell me, 'Mother, when they say 'call your next witness,' and I look around and I'm surprised. It's people that I've helped, and they're up there trying to make money off of me by lying. I don't understand how people can do that.'"
Adding that:
"he'd been proven not to be a child molester, and they know he's not. But some people just believe what they believe and I can't stop that. But I wish they would stop and think about it. That he is not a child molester. He is not a pedophile. He doesn't give liquor to children. These kids were bad kids."
Mrs Jackson said that she feels sorry for the Arvizos:
"I feel sorry for them, too. From what I hear about their past, I feel sorry for their future if they don't change their way."
However, she was less forgiving about Tom Sneddon:
"My son is a better person than he is. What he did to my son, my son would never do to anyone else."
She said that the trial took everything out of Jackson, both physically and mentally.
Quote:
"One of the reasons why it devastated him, he would tell me, 'Mother, when they say 'call your next witness,' and I look around and I'm surprised. It's people that I've helped, and they're up there trying to make money off of me by lying. I don't understand how people can do that.'"
Adding that:
"he'd been proven not to be a child molester, and they know he's not. But some people just believe what they believe and I can't stop that. But I wish they would stop and think about it. That he is not a child molester. He is not a pedophile. He doesn't give liquor to children. These kids were bad kids."
Mrs Jackson said that she feels sorry for the Arvizos:
"I feel sorry for them, too. From what I hear about their past, I feel sorry for their future if they don't change their way."
However, she was less forgiving about Tom Sneddon:
"My son is a better person than he is. What he did to my son, my son would never do to anyone else."
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Leno Does Mesereau
Jay Leno hosted Michael Jackson's defence attorney, Tom Mesereau, on his Tonight Show last night.
Leno kicked off by saying that Jackson could start a show in Las Vegas by "playing Diana Ross in the 'Legends Show.'"
Mesereau, who seemed not to be that happy during the interview, said:
"Michael Jackson is an artist. He's a creative spirit. He likes to sit in a tree and compose music,".
He went on to attack prosecutor Tom Sneddon, saying "he had a personal vendetta".
I thought that these guys were professionals, who didn't take their roles personally?
He said that Jackson's settlement with Jordie Chandler was a mistake, I think that is very true indeed.
Leno kicked off by saying that Jackson could start a show in Las Vegas by "playing Diana Ross in the 'Legends Show.'"
Mesereau, who seemed not to be that happy during the interview, said:
"Michael Jackson is an artist. He's a creative spirit. He likes to sit in a tree and compose music,".
He went on to attack prosecutor Tom Sneddon, saying "he had a personal vendetta".
I thought that these guys were professionals, who didn't take their roles personally?
He said that Jackson's settlement with Jordie Chandler was a mistake, I think that is very true indeed.
Friday, June 17, 2005
Sneddon Won't Return Jackson's Penis
Tom Sneddon has told interviewers that he has no intention of giving Michael Jackson back the photo taken of his penis (Jackson's) during the 1993 Jordie Chandler investigation.
Quote:
"It could turn out to be evidence,".
Let us hope that it doesn't leak.
Quote:
"It could turn out to be evidence,".
Let us hope that it doesn't leak.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Jackson To Sue Sneddon?
Tom Mesereau, Michael Jackson's defence attorney, is reportedly urging Jackson to go back to court and sue Tom Sneddon for "malicious prosecution".
I would have though that the best thing for Jackson would be to get away from lawyers and courts for a while, and to make an attempt to rebuild his brand.
I note that there are also rumours that he may sue Martin Bashir, in London, for his 2003 documentary.
Mesereau made his suggestion, about suing Sneddon, on Larry King Live.
Quote:
"Do I think this was done maliciously and unfairly? Absolutely...I think that he was treated in a way that no one else would have been similarly treated. It's because he's a mega-celebrity."
Adding:
"I think their biggest problem was they were not objective about their case, they believed things they wanted to believe, they tried to prove theories that were absurd and they tried to demonise Michael Jackson."
Sometimes though, even in victory, it is better to get on with your life and let the dust settle.
I would have though that the best thing for Jackson would be to get away from lawyers and courts for a while, and to make an attempt to rebuild his brand.
I note that there are also rumours that he may sue Martin Bashir, in London, for his 2003 documentary.
Mesereau made his suggestion, about suing Sneddon, on Larry King Live.
Quote:
"Do I think this was done maliciously and unfairly? Absolutely...I think that he was treated in a way that no one else would have been similarly treated. It's because he's a mega-celebrity."
Adding:
"I think their biggest problem was they were not objective about their case, they believed things they wanted to believe, they tried to prove theories that were absurd and they tried to demonise Michael Jackson."
Sometimes though, even in victory, it is better to get on with your life and let the dust settle.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Punch Up Almost Erupts At Jackson Trial
The tension, whilst waiting for the verdict in the Michael Jackson trial, appears to be getting to some of the more "excitable" Jackson fans.
There were about 200 fans, cordoned off by a fence, who hoisted signs and repeatedly yelled "Liar! Liar!" at the posse of international reporters gathered for the verdict.
At one point, fans and camera crews almost had a punch up when Joe Jackson appeared; he arrived under the mistaken belief that a verdict had been delivered.
In addition to the media, the fans also seem to be a "tad annoyed" at DA Tom Sneddon, who they refer to as a "snake" and a liar who "will go to hell."
I thought Jackson "preached" forgiveness and peace?
It seems that if the jury find Jackson guilty there may be some bother there.
There were about 200 fans, cordoned off by a fence, who hoisted signs and repeatedly yelled "Liar! Liar!" at the posse of international reporters gathered for the verdict.
At one point, fans and camera crews almost had a punch up when Joe Jackson appeared; he arrived under the mistaken belief that a verdict had been delivered.
In addition to the media, the fans also seem to be a "tad annoyed" at DA Tom Sneddon, who they refer to as a "snake" and a liar who "will go to hell."
I thought Jackson "preached" forgiveness and peace?
It seems that if the jury find Jackson guilty there may be some bother there.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Jackson's Children Not His Own
It is being reported that Paris, Prince and Blanket (an absurd name) are not Michael Jackson's children.
The "Outtakes Tape", the video that Jackson's cameraman Hamid Moslehi made of Martin Bashir, was discussed between the prosecution, defence and judge in Jackson's trial.
In the tape Jackson tells Bashir that his children genetically his, and that he had slept with Debbie Rowe to conceive Prince and Paris. Regarding Blanket, he seemingly used a surrogate whose egg had been fertilised with his own sperm.
Defence council Sanger is reported to have said during the discussions:
"The circumstances that relate to the birth of the children wouldn't be admitted for the truth of the matter. Only his love of the children."
District Attorney Tom Sneddon had threatened to show that Jackson lied about the paternity.
Not that showing Jackson had not fathered the children would prove that he was a child molester.
The "Outtakes Tape", the video that Jackson's cameraman Hamid Moslehi made of Martin Bashir, was discussed between the prosecution, defence and judge in Jackson's trial.
In the tape Jackson tells Bashir that his children genetically his, and that he had slept with Debbie Rowe to conceive Prince and Paris. Regarding Blanket, he seemingly used a surrogate whose egg had been fertilised with his own sperm.
Defence council Sanger is reported to have said during the discussions:
"The circumstances that relate to the birth of the children wouldn't be admitted for the truth of the matter. Only his love of the children."
District Attorney Tom Sneddon had threatened to show that Jackson lied about the paternity.
Not that showing Jackson had not fathered the children would prove that he was a child molester.
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Cunning Gavin
Chris Tucker, the comedian, was the final defence witness in the Michael Jackson trial yesterday.
He said that he found Gavin Arvizo to be "unusually cunning", for a 12 year old. He first met him at a benefit, while Arvizo was fighting cancer, in 2001.
Tucker said that he became suspicious about the Arvizos, when they turned up at the set of a movie he was filming in Las Vegas and wouldn't leave.
Tucker ended up paying for their hotel and expenses, but they were still there several weeks on.
They sound like total bums to me.
Tucker even arranged for a private flight to Miami for them, after they discovered that Jackson was there.
He said that, when in Florida, he took Jackson aside and warned him to be wary of the family.
Quote:
"I said, 'Michael, something ain't right,'".
District Attorney Tom Sneddon, for the prosecution, suggested that Tucker encouraged the family by asking them to come to his brother's wedding. However, Tucker said that they invited themselves.
When Sneddon showed a photograph of the family at the wedding with Tucker, the comedian quipped, "That's a nice photograph. Can I get it?"
Sneddon replied:
"That depends on whether youÂ’re a good boy."
Whatever the verdict of the jury about the truth, or otherwise of the Arvizo's allegations, it is clear that the reputation of the Arvizo clan will forever remain in the gutter.
He said that he found Gavin Arvizo to be "unusually cunning", for a 12 year old. He first met him at a benefit, while Arvizo was fighting cancer, in 2001.
Tucker said that he became suspicious about the Arvizos, when they turned up at the set of a movie he was filming in Las Vegas and wouldn't leave.
Tucker ended up paying for their hotel and expenses, but they were still there several weeks on.
They sound like total bums to me.
Tucker even arranged for a private flight to Miami for them, after they discovered that Jackson was there.
He said that, when in Florida, he took Jackson aside and warned him to be wary of the family.
Quote:
"I said, 'Michael, something ain't right,'".
District Attorney Tom Sneddon, for the prosecution, suggested that Tucker encouraged the family by asking them to come to his brother's wedding. However, Tucker said that they invited themselves.
When Sneddon showed a photograph of the family at the wedding with Tucker, the comedian quipped, "That's a nice photograph. Can I get it?"
Sneddon replied:
"That depends on whether youÂ’re a good boy."
Whatever the verdict of the jury about the truth, or otherwise of the Arvizo's allegations, it is clear that the reputation of the Arvizo clan will forever remain in the gutter.
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Down But Not Out
The prosecution seem to have foundered in their selection of Debbie Rowe as a witness in the Michael Jackson trial.
Instead of providing them with ammunition to use against Jackson, she has painted a picture of Jackson as being a good father and friend who is manipulated by "vultures".
Has this put the prosecution team off?
Not at all!
They have asked that travel and phone records be brought into evidence. These will be used to bolster their argument that Jackson conspired to falsely imprison the Arvizos.
Additionally Tom Sneddon has said that he will call three, yet to be identified, new witnesses.
The prosecution will finally rest on Tuesday of next week.
Instead of providing them with ammunition to use against Jackson, she has painted a picture of Jackson as being a good father and friend who is manipulated by "vultures".
Has this put the prosecution team off?
Not at all!
They have asked that travel and phone records be brought into evidence. These will be used to bolster their argument that Jackson conspired to falsely imprison the Arvizos.
Additionally Tom Sneddon has said that he will call three, yet to be identified, new witnesses.
The prosecution will finally rest on Tuesday of next week.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
Janet Jackson May Not Testify
It seems that Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) may not testify, after all, at Michael Jackson's trial.
It is reported that Janet sees potential legal problems if she testifies.
No kidding!
The prosecution have filed a motion that the defence be disbarred from asking Janet any questions about welfare fraud.
This trial could certainly not have dredged up a more unpleasant and odious bunch of people if it had tried. The stench of greed and lies is positively nauseating.
Tom Sneddon has told jurors that Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) "obtained welfare funds when she wasn't entitled to them. She's going to tell you that, and she's going to admit that."
In other words, she is a thief and liar.
Janet, fearing no doubt that the welfare services might jump on her from a great height, is thinking of pleading the Fifth Amendment. Needless to say, this would fatally hole her testimony below the water line.
Whilst she is not relevant to the case about molestation, she is relevant to the conspiracy charges against five unindicted Jackson associates.
Whoever eventually wins this sorry and sordid little example of the failings of humanity, it will not be the human race.
It is reported that Janet sees potential legal problems if she testifies.
No kidding!
The prosecution have filed a motion that the defence be disbarred from asking Janet any questions about welfare fraud.
This trial could certainly not have dredged up a more unpleasant and odious bunch of people if it had tried. The stench of greed and lies is positively nauseating.
Tom Sneddon has told jurors that Janet Jackson (nee Arvizo) "obtained welfare funds when she wasn't entitled to them. She's going to tell you that, and she's going to admit that."
In other words, she is a thief and liar.
Janet, fearing no doubt that the welfare services might jump on her from a great height, is thinking of pleading the Fifth Amendment. Needless to say, this would fatally hole her testimony below the water line.
Whilst she is not relevant to the case about molestation, she is relevant to the conspiracy charges against five unindicted Jackson associates.
Whoever eventually wins this sorry and sordid little example of the failings of humanity, it will not be the human race.
Monday, April 04, 2005
Jackson Invokes God
Michael Jackson has reportedly said that "God and the truth are on our side."
He then went on to say:
"You understand I can't be there today," said Jackson. "I wish I could... I know you've traveled from around the world and I'm glad you came."
"I truly believe I have the most wonderful fans in the world," he said. "I'm looking forward to being with you very soon. Keep on dancing. I love you all very much."
Jackson made a speakerphone call on Sunday to approximately 200 fans, who had gathered at a hotel ballroom in Santa Maria.
The event cost $20 per head, and featured; singers, Jackson impersonators and someone known as "Majestic Magnificent."
In the spirit of peace and love, some Jackson fans beat a pinata with the face of prosecutor Tom Sneddon on Saturday.
The Jackson fan club president, Deborah Dannelly, said:
"It was meant in fun. We don't mean any harm to Mr. Sneddon".
He then went on to say:
"You understand I can't be there today," said Jackson. "I wish I could... I know you've traveled from around the world and I'm glad you came."
"I truly believe I have the most wonderful fans in the world," he said. "I'm looking forward to being with you very soon. Keep on dancing. I love you all very much."
Jackson made a speakerphone call on Sunday to approximately 200 fans, who had gathered at a hotel ballroom in Santa Maria.
The event cost $20 per head, and featured; singers, Jackson impersonators and someone known as "Majestic Magnificent."
In the spirit of peace and love, some Jackson fans beat a pinata with the face of prosecutor Tom Sneddon on Saturday.
The Jackson fan club president, Deborah Dannelly, said:
"It was meant in fun. We don't mean any harm to Mr. Sneddon".
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Lopez Allegations
Judge Rodney Melville yesterday agreed to allow testimony that Gavin Arvizo once claimed comedian George Lopez stole his wallet.
Jackson's lawyer, Robert Sanger, said that Lopez and Gavin met at a comedy club but later fell out. Sanger said that Gavin then accused Lopez of stealing his wallet and demanded $300.
This, at least according to the game plan of the defence, shows a pattern of the accuser trying to make money out of celebrities.
District Attorney, Tom Sneddon sought, to block the Lopez evidence on the grounds that Gavin tried to resist his father's plan to say there was $300 in the wallet.
Judge Rodney Melville rejected a defence request for a mistrial, after a witness mentioned the name of Jordie Chandler who made sex allegations against Jackson in 1993.
On Thursday, a former housekeeper at Jackson's Neverland ranch mentioned Jordie Chandler who received a multimillion-dollar civil settlement after claiming in 1993 that Jackson molested him.
The defence argued that the testimony violated Melville's ruling that no evidence of past sexual crimes could be admitted, unless the judge said so.
In denying the request for a mistrial, Melville said prosecutors elicited the testimony to establish how much contact Jackson had with boys who visited Neverland, not to suggest any impropriety by the singer.
Judge Melville also set a March 28 date for a hearing on the prosecution request to allow evidence of alleged prior offences into Jackson's trial.
Jackson's lawyer, Robert Sanger, said that Lopez and Gavin met at a comedy club but later fell out. Sanger said that Gavin then accused Lopez of stealing his wallet and demanded $300.
This, at least according to the game plan of the defence, shows a pattern of the accuser trying to make money out of celebrities.
District Attorney, Tom Sneddon sought, to block the Lopez evidence on the grounds that Gavin tried to resist his father's plan to say there was $300 in the wallet.
Judge Rodney Melville rejected a defence request for a mistrial, after a witness mentioned the name of Jordie Chandler who made sex allegations against Jackson in 1993.
On Thursday, a former housekeeper at Jackson's Neverland ranch mentioned Jordie Chandler who received a multimillion-dollar civil settlement after claiming in 1993 that Jackson molested him.
The defence argued that the testimony violated Melville's ruling that no evidence of past sexual crimes could be admitted, unless the judge said so.
In denying the request for a mistrial, Melville said prosecutors elicited the testimony to establish how much contact Jackson had with boys who visited Neverland, not to suggest any impropriety by the singer.
Judge Melville also set a March 28 date for a hearing on the prosecution request to allow evidence of alleged prior offences into Jackson's trial.
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Gavin's Teacher To Take The Stand
It is reported that Gavin Arvizo's former teacher, Jeffrey Alpert, may take the stand in the Michael Jackson trial.
It seems that Gavin told Alpert, from Burroughs Middle School in Los Angeles, that "nothing happened" between him and Jackson.
The prosecutor, Tom Sneddon, and Jackson's defence team held a meeting with Alpert on Saturday.
Alpert's attorney, Thomas Forsyth, reportedly said that the meeting lasted approximately one hour; he expects his client to be called as a witness.
One thing is for sure, the legal community are doing very well out of this trial!
Yesterday Tom Mesereau, Jackson's attorney, cross-examined Gavin about what he told Alpert. Gavin admitted that he said to Alpert:
"Michael didn't do anything to me."
There are some questions as to why this witness only appeared a few days ago. Some speculate that this is not surprising. Gavin did not tell his family, friends or anyone close to him about the alleged molestation until months later; it is allegedly consistent with the embarrassment he may have felt.
Conversely he may just be lying.
It seems that Gavin told Alpert, from Burroughs Middle School in Los Angeles, that "nothing happened" between him and Jackson.
The prosecutor, Tom Sneddon, and Jackson's defence team held a meeting with Alpert on Saturday.
Alpert's attorney, Thomas Forsyth, reportedly said that the meeting lasted approximately one hour; he expects his client to be called as a witness.
One thing is for sure, the legal community are doing very well out of this trial!
Yesterday Tom Mesereau, Jackson's attorney, cross-examined Gavin about what he told Alpert. Gavin admitted that he said to Alpert:
"Michael didn't do anything to me."
There are some questions as to why this witness only appeared a few days ago. Some speculate that this is not surprising. Gavin did not tell his family, friends or anyone close to him about the alleged molestation until months later; it is allegedly consistent with the embarrassment he may have felt.
Conversely he may just be lying.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
A Picture of Dorian Gray
Much like Oscar Wilde's character, Dorian Gray, Michael Jackson is being portrayed by the defence and prosecution in diametrically opposing forms; either he is a good looking kindly man who loves children and animals, or else he is an evil monster luring children into his dark and tortured world.
Thus begins Michael Jackson's trial, the jury will have to decide which is the real Michael Jackson.
Defence attorney Thomas Mesereau opened by saying:
"The prosecution presented a picture of Neverland as a haven for crime. It is not. ... He created Neverland for particular reasons. He wanted a place for children to come and be free and spontaneous and enjoy themselves."
District Attorney Tom Sneddon suggested that Neverland designed to entrap children, quote:
"The private world of Michael Jackson will show that instead of reading them Peter Pan, he's showing them sexually explicit magazines. ... Instead of cookies and milk, you can substitute wine, vodka and bourbon..".
Sneddon went on to say that Jackson showed the boy sexually explicit material, groping him, and of a conspiracy involving Jackson's associates and a threat to kill the boy's mother.
"(The accuser) will describe to you his sexual experiences with Michael Jackson. He will do it here in open court and he will do it with the whole world watching..".
Jackson is accused of molesting the boy, who was 13 at the time and cancer patient, at his Neverland ranch in early 2003. It is alleged that he gave him alcohol and conspired to hold him and his family captive.
Mesereau rebutted, saying that the mother of the accuser fraudulently claimed to many people that she was destitute and that her son needed money for chemotherapy. In truth, he said, the boy's father was a member of a union that covered his medical bills.
Mesereau alleged that the mother went to a number of celebrities looking for money including; comedian Jay Leno, comedian George Lopez and Los Angeles TV weatherman Fritz Coleman, who staged a fund-raiser for the child at a comedy club.
Mesereau said:
"At the fund-raiser, there was (the boy) in the lobby of the Laugh Factory with his hand out, prodded by (his mother)..".
Adding that:
"The most vulnerable celebrity became the mark, Michael Jackson,".
Mesereau alleged a history of fraud by the mother against others including; J.C. Penney, which paid her $152K to settle claims arising from a brush with security guards when her son left a store with items that had not been paid for. The mother claimed they were battered, held against their will and that she was groped.
Mesereau said that an employee of a law firm that represented the mother in the J.C. Penney suit has come forward, and will testify that the mother admitted lying. The employee didn't come forward before because the mother said her husband had a cousin in the Mexican Mafia and she feared for her life, Mesereau told the jury.
At the beginning of the trial Judge Rodney Melville read the indictment, naming for the first time the five Jackson employees and associates described as unindicted co-conspirators: Frank Tyson, also known as Frank Cascio, and Ronald Konitzer, Dieter Wiesner, Marc Schaffel and Vincent Amen.
Sneddon brought up the February 2003 TV documentary "Living With Michael Jackson," in which Jackson was holding hands with the boy and saying he allows children to sleep in his bed.
Sneddon said:
"Jackson's world was rocked........it was a train wreck."
Sneddon alleged that Jackson intended to use the boy as part of a comeback attempt, by discussing in the documentary how the singer helped him through his cancer; and that Jackson coached the boy about what to say.
The prosecutor described the alleged molesation of the boy by Jackson; Jackson told the boy that masturbation was normal, then reached into the boy's underpants and masturbated the boy and himself. This happened twice, with Jackson trying to move the boy's arm toward his own genitals the second time but the boy resisted.
It was alleged that Tyson told the family they were in danger and "this is not the time to be out there alone. This is not the time to turn your back on Michael."
The indictment said Tyson told them that "staying even one night alone is not safe."
The indictment stated that between February and March 2003, Tyson threatened the accuser, saying:
"Michael could make the family disappear...I could have your mother killed."
Sneddon alleged that when the boy and his family first visited Neverland, Jackson told the boy to ask his mother if he could sleep in Jackson's bedroom. He said Jackson then showed sexually explicit Web sites to the boy and his own son, Prince Michael, on that visit.
Searches of Neverland turned up sexually explicit DVDs and magazines, including 1960's nudist periodicals with pictures of naked children, and correspondence from the accuser addressed to "Michael" or "Michael Daddy,".
Some magazines had the fingerprints of Jackson, others had the prints of the boy and his brother, and one had prints from both Jackson and the accuser, he said.
And so it begins, the jury must decide which is the real Michael Jackson.
Thus begins Michael Jackson's trial, the jury will have to decide which is the real Michael Jackson.
Defence attorney Thomas Mesereau opened by saying:
"The prosecution presented a picture of Neverland as a haven for crime. It is not. ... He created Neverland for particular reasons. He wanted a place for children to come and be free and spontaneous and enjoy themselves."
District Attorney Tom Sneddon suggested that Neverland designed to entrap children, quote:
"The private world of Michael Jackson will show that instead of reading them Peter Pan, he's showing them sexually explicit magazines. ... Instead of cookies and milk, you can substitute wine, vodka and bourbon..".
Sneddon went on to say that Jackson showed the boy sexually explicit material, groping him, and of a conspiracy involving Jackson's associates and a threat to kill the boy's mother.
"(The accuser) will describe to you his sexual experiences with Michael Jackson. He will do it here in open court and he will do it with the whole world watching..".
Jackson is accused of molesting the boy, who was 13 at the time and cancer patient, at his Neverland ranch in early 2003. It is alleged that he gave him alcohol and conspired to hold him and his family captive.
Mesereau rebutted, saying that the mother of the accuser fraudulently claimed to many people that she was destitute and that her son needed money for chemotherapy. In truth, he said, the boy's father was a member of a union that covered his medical bills.
Mesereau alleged that the mother went to a number of celebrities looking for money including; comedian Jay Leno, comedian George Lopez and Los Angeles TV weatherman Fritz Coleman, who staged a fund-raiser for the child at a comedy club.
Mesereau said:
"At the fund-raiser, there was (the boy) in the lobby of the Laugh Factory with his hand out, prodded by (his mother)..".
Adding that:
"The most vulnerable celebrity became the mark, Michael Jackson,".
Mesereau alleged a history of fraud by the mother against others including; J.C. Penney, which paid her $152K to settle claims arising from a brush with security guards when her son left a store with items that had not been paid for. The mother claimed they were battered, held against their will and that she was groped.
Mesereau said that an employee of a law firm that represented the mother in the J.C. Penney suit has come forward, and will testify that the mother admitted lying. The employee didn't come forward before because the mother said her husband had a cousin in the Mexican Mafia and she feared for her life, Mesereau told the jury.
At the beginning of the trial Judge Rodney Melville read the indictment, naming for the first time the five Jackson employees and associates described as unindicted co-conspirators: Frank Tyson, also known as Frank Cascio, and Ronald Konitzer, Dieter Wiesner, Marc Schaffel and Vincent Amen.
Sneddon brought up the February 2003 TV documentary "Living With Michael Jackson," in which Jackson was holding hands with the boy and saying he allows children to sleep in his bed.
Sneddon said:
"Jackson's world was rocked........it was a train wreck."
Sneddon alleged that Jackson intended to use the boy as part of a comeback attempt, by discussing in the documentary how the singer helped him through his cancer; and that Jackson coached the boy about what to say.
The prosecutor described the alleged molesation of the boy by Jackson; Jackson told the boy that masturbation was normal, then reached into the boy's underpants and masturbated the boy and himself. This happened twice, with Jackson trying to move the boy's arm toward his own genitals the second time but the boy resisted.
It was alleged that Tyson told the family they were in danger and "this is not the time to be out there alone. This is not the time to turn your back on Michael."
The indictment said Tyson told them that "staying even one night alone is not safe."
The indictment stated that between February and March 2003, Tyson threatened the accuser, saying:
"Michael could make the family disappear...I could have your mother killed."
Sneddon alleged that when the boy and his family first visited Neverland, Jackson told the boy to ask his mother if he could sleep in Jackson's bedroom. He said Jackson then showed sexually explicit Web sites to the boy and his own son, Prince Michael, on that visit.
Searches of Neverland turned up sexually explicit DVDs and magazines, including 1960's nudist periodicals with pictures of naked children, and correspondence from the accuser addressed to "Michael" or "Michael Daddy,".
Some magazines had the fingerprints of Jackson, others had the prints of the boy and his brother, and one had prints from both Jackson and the accuser, he said.
And so it begins, the jury must decide which is the real Michael Jackson.
Thursday, November 04, 2004
Sneddon Stays
In a rebuff to Michael Jackson's defence team, Bill Lockyer (California's attorney general), has ruled that DA Tom Sneddon will remain as prosecutor in the trial of Michael Jackson.
Jackson's defense attorneys had argued that Sneddon holds a grudge against Jackson.
However, Lockyer has ruled that Jackson's team had not come anywhere near to proving misconduct by Sneddon.
Jackson's defense attorneys had argued that Sneddon holds a grudge against Jackson.
However, Lockyer has ruled that Jackson's team had not come anywhere near to proving misconduct by Sneddon.
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
Attorney General Steps In
Bill Lockyer, California's attorney general, has urged the judge in the Michael Jackson's child molestation case to reject the bid by Jackson's defence to remove Tom Sneddon, the Santa Barbara County prosecutor, from the case.
Lockyer has called the request "baseless".
Jackson's lawyers allege that Sneddon is "blinded by his zeal".
Jackson's attorneys do not seem to like Sneddon's "smug" and "jocular" manner during a news conference, in which he announced Jackson's arrest.
It all seems to be getting rather personal.
Lockyer has called the request "baseless".
Jackson's lawyers allege that Sneddon is "blinded by his zeal".
Jackson's attorneys do not seem to like Sneddon's "smug" and "jocular" manner during a news conference, in which he announced Jackson's arrest.
It all seems to be getting rather personal.
Sunday, October 31, 2004
No Way
The state Attorney General's Office has said no to the request of Michael Jackson's defence lawyers to remove Santa Barbara County District Attorney Tom Sneddon from Michael Jackson's child molestation case.
No surprises there then!
No surprises there then!
Friday, October 08, 2004
Personal Animosity
The motion to dismiss Tom Sneddon, as prosecutor in the Michael Jackson trial, was partly unsealed yesterday.
It seems that Jackson's team feel that Sneddon's case is personal. Sneddon, in their view, has quote:
"abandoned his role as public prosecutor, and is motivated by personal animosity toward the singer."
They believe that Sneddon's handling of the investigation has revealed a conflict of interest, that prevents the singer from obtaining a fair trial.
They go on to allege that Sneddon has a vendetta against Jackson, which dates back to the 1993 molestation investigation which failed.
It seems that Jackson's team feel that Sneddon's case is personal. Sneddon, in their view, has quote:
"abandoned his role as public prosecutor, and is motivated by personal animosity toward the singer."
They believe that Sneddon's handling of the investigation has revealed a conflict of interest, that prevents the singer from obtaining a fair trial.
They go on to allege that Sneddon has a vendetta against Jackson, which dates back to the 1993 molestation investigation which failed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)