Jackson prosecutors want to show 'erotic materials'
Mood:  irritated
Topic: Prosecutor Press Release

LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) -- Prosecutors want to show jurors "erotic materials" seized from Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch when the pop singer goes on trial on child molestation charges, according to newly released court documents.

The request covers books, videos and magazines seized in searches in November 2003, and three books and two photographs taken by investigators in August 1993, when Jackson faced similar allegations.

The self-proclaimed "King of Pop" resolved that case with a multimillion-dollar, out-of-court settlement, and no charges were filed.

"The listed materials are admissible and relevant as circumstantial evidence on the issues of the defendant's intent, motive and method," prosecutors argued in court papers.

Jackson, 46, is scheduled to stand trial next Monday on four counts of child molestation, four counts of administering an intoxicating agent, one count of attempted child molestation and one count of conspiracy to commit child abduction, false imprisonment and extortion. He has pleaded not guilty on all counts.

In a motion filed January 18, and released Monday with large passages blacked out, prosecutors wrote that Jackson's prior conduct "demonstrating a particular state of mind" can serve as evidence of his intent and should be allowed.

The defense filed a motion Friday seeking to prevent prosecutors from referring to certain material as "pornographic" in front of jurors. Defense attorney Brian Oxman said Tuesday that the defense cannot comment due to a gag order imposed by Superior Court Judge Rodney Melville, who will hear the case.

In a related matter, Santa Barbara County District Attorney Tom Sneddon and Sheriff Jim Anderson said their offices are investigating the leaks of confidential grand jury testimony, investigative reports and other documents related to the Jackson case. Those records are covered by the gag order, they said.

"We consider the release of these materials to be a violation of the law," the county officials said in a written statement. "Some media commentators have alleged that we are responsible for these leaks. We are not. These accusations are irresponsible, unfounded and untrue.

"We are actively investigating this matter."

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