Michael Jackson Case Latest: Brothers Question Accusers Credibility
Mood:  incredulous
Topic: Main News

January 23, 2005, 10:41:28 BROTHERS QUESTION THE CREDIBILITY OF JACKSON'S ACCUSER

The credibility of the woman accusing MICHAEL JACKSON of fathering her twin sons and holding them hostage has again come into question after her half- brothers dismissed her claims.

SHOLEH BOCCHELLI claims she gave birth to the pop superstar's twins in November (04) and has now been barred from seeing her kids after alleging Jackson has stopped paying her child support.

But Bocchelli's half-brothers, CHRIS and SEAN SALAMIPOUR (corr), insist their sister isn't telling the truth.

Appearing on American scandal show CELEBRITY JUSTICE last week (19JAN05), Chris says, "I'm very surprised. I don't believe it. It sounds too fake."

** Michael Jackson Article Continues Below **
** The Michael Jackson article continues now **
He and brother Sean claim they saw their sibling last autumn (04), shortly before she claims to have given birth and she didn't appear to be pregnant.

Meanwhile, Bocchelli has been exposed as the suicidal subject of a restraining order brought against in her in 2001 after a Los Angeles chiropodist accused her of stalking him.

Mesereau Slams Accusing Family
Mood:  incredulous
Topic: Main News
MJJF eNews #472 - Friday Jan 21, 2005

Michael Jackson's defense attorney, Tom Mesereau, came out swinging today in court to object to motions filed by the prosecution to allow an expert witness to testify regarding how children behave after child abuse.

Judge Rodney S. Melville granted the motion this morning, however Melville said there will be strict limits that will be discussed before the expert testifies.

Tom Mesereau argued that the prosecution is making a desperate attempt to bolster what he described as a "horrific problem" with their case.

Here are some of the more colorful quotes that came from Tom A. Mesereau today regarding the accusing family:

"What if they are flat out liars?" Mesereau said of the witnesses. "What if they have a history of lying? What if the boy lied in the past to help his mother obtain money through the legal process?"

Tom Mesereau on cross examining the accusing family: "We're quite confident of what they're going to look like after they're subjected finally to cross-examination," Mesereau said.

Mesereau also said the defense would show the family had lied "in their community, in their school, in their acting school" and "aren't victims at all." Mesereau repeatedly referred to the accusing family as "flat-out liars."

In more MJ case news, Melville used his judicial discretion today and decided to keep the jury questionnaires out of public view. The judge also conveyed his dissatisfaction with the lengthy questionnaire that both the prosecution and defense submitted.

"Quite frankly I've gutted it," Melville told attorneys. "I don't know how many pages you gave me. But there is about seven pages left."

Stay tuned to MJJForum for more details about the MJ Case, and other Michael Jackson news and information!

Source: MJJForum/La Times/ Monterey Herald

Jackson Judge Okays Abuse Expert
Mood:  irritated
Topic: Main News


by Sarah Hall
Jan 21, 2005, 2:45 PM PT


Not a great day in Neverland.

Over objections from Michael Jackson's defense team at a pretrial hearing Friday, Superior Court Judge Rodney S. Melville ruled that the prosecution can call an expert witness to describe how children behave after abuse.

The prosecution specifically wants the expert's testimony to help "dispel myths commonly associated with child sexual abuse traumas," according to Ronald Zonen, a deputy district attorney.

Zonen said that there are four myths that commonly confuse jurors and are played up by the defense in molestation cases: the late reporting of child abuse by the victim; piecemeal accounts of what occurred; the fact that children often do not confide in those close to them; and that they retain affection and sometimes even love for their abuser.

He said the unnamed expert would be able to testify to how such perplexing behavior is part of a "grooming process."

Jackson attorney Thomas Mesereau said that calling a molestation expert to testify was part of a desperate attempt by the prosecution to shore up a "horrific problem" with their case.

He argued that there was no need to call the expert to discuss the testimony of Jackson's accuser, now 15, and his brother, 14, if he can prove that they "aren't victims at all, they're flat-out liars."

"What if they have a history of lying?" Mesereau said of the witnesses. "What if the boy lied in the past to help his mother obtain money through the legal process?"

In spite of Team Jackson's strenuous objections, Melville granted the prosecution's motion, but said there will be strict limits that will be discussed before the expert takes the stand.

Also at the pretrial hearing, Melville said he had decided to keep the questionnaires that will be passed out to prospective jurors out of the public eye. He said he was dissatisfied with the lengthy questionnaires presented by both sides and that he was in the midst of making major changes.

"Quite frankly, I've gutted it," Melville said. "I don't know how many pages you gave me. But there is about seven pages left."

In other Jackson news, LaToya Jackson, who once made remarks indicating that she thought her brother was guilty of the child molestation charges he faced in 1993, has taken to the airwaves in support of her brother in an interview scheduled to air Friday on ABC's 20/20.

According to the middle Jackson child, her brother is simply "misunderstood."

"I love my brother...Michael is one of the sweetest persons on this earth. You have no idea," LaToya said in the interview.

"He's been so sheltered from the world that it's to extremes...He is so, I believe, well, I know, disconnected with the outside world, that he doesn't understand how they view him, and it's really sad," she said.

She said she did not think Jackson would ever veer from his Peter Pan-esque persona.

"I don't think that he will stop seeing children because...when you don't see anything wrong that you're doing, it's like, 'but I'm doing nothing wrong,'" LaToya said.

"He loves children. We all love children...It's been quite difficult, having this great love for children, because people take it the wrong way, and the results are upon us today, as we can see."

Indeed we can. Jackson faces trial on 10 felony charges ranging from child molestation to conspiracy. He has pleaded innocent across the board and remains free on $3 million bail. Jury selection in his trial is due to commence Jan. 31.

Judge rules against Jackson camp on child abuse expert ahead of trial
Mood:  sad
Topic: Main News


AFP: 1/21/2005

SANTA MARIA, California, Jan 21 (AFP) - The judge in Michael Jackson's child sex case on Friday gave prosecutors permission to call an expert to explain to trial jurors why young victims often show love for their abusers.

The specialist is expected to help prosecutors explain why Jackson's now 15-year-old alleged victim delayed reporting his alleged molestation at the hands of the "King of Pop" to family or authorities.

The expert will be summoned to appear at Jackson's trial, which is set to begin in 10 days time with the process of selecting a jury.

The testimony will help "dispel myths" about child abuse and show "why a child might demonstrate affection of even love for the person who does the offence," prosecutor Ronald Zonen told Judge Rodney Melville.

Melville said he would allow the testimony, but indicated that the expert would not be allowed discuss issues such as whether Jackson, 46, fitted the profile of a child molester.

Zonen said he wanted the specialist to explain why the boy's claims may have emerged in a "piecemeal" fashion and why he did not immediately raise the alarm.

The testimony will "dispel myths associated with child abuse trauma," Zones told the judge at a hearing in the California hamlet of Santa Maria, which is gearing up for the celebrity trial of the year.

Jackson's lead lawyer, Thomas Mesereau, had strongly urged Melville not to allow the testimony.

He maintained that the expert may distort the jury's view of the case and implied that the alleged victim and his younger brother may have had a history of lying in school and in the community.

"What if they are flat out liars?" Mesereau said, appealing to the judge to bar the expert's testimony.

Lawyers from both sides in the case also went over details of the how a 12-person panel would be selected for the trial, which is expected to last around six month, according to court officials.



01/21/2005 20:27 GMT - AFP


Copyright ? 2004 Agence France Presse. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AFP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of Agence France Presse.

LaToya Jackson Defends Michael
Mood:  happy
Topic: Main News
Singer Talks to '20/20' About Her Marriage, Career and Family

Jan. 20, 2005 - LaToya Jackson is looking for a fresh start by first clearing up her past. The middle child of the famed family is speaking out about her life and defending her brother Michael while preparing to release a new album, "Starting Over."

In an exclusive interview airing Friday night on "20/20," she tells ABC News correspondent Don Dahler her brother Michael is simply misunderstood.

"I love my brother ? Michael is one of the sweetest persons on this earth. You have no idea. He is so misunderstood," said LaToya, 48.

Michael Jackson is awaiting trial on child molestation charges. He has pleaded not guilty and denies any wrongdoing.

More than a decade ago, when Michael was first involved in a scandal involving sexual molestation allegations, LaToya made comments suggesting she believed he might have done it. But she is now defending her sibling.

LaToya says the same sheltered upbringing that she believes led to her troubles has also contributed to her brother's. "He's been so sheltered from the world that it's to extremes ? He is so, I believe, well, I know, disconnected with the outside world, that he doesn't understand how they view him, and it's really sad," she said.

She says her brother loves children, but his motives for spending time with them are misunderstood.

"I don't think that he will stop seeing children because ? when you don't see anything wrong that you're doing, it's like, 'but I'm doing nothing wrong,'" said LaToya. "He loves children. We all love children ? It's been quite difficult, having this great love for children, because people take it the wrong way, and the results are upon us today, as we can see."

LaToya also takes viewers behind closed doors with an explicit account of the man she alleges physically and emotionally abused her for 10 years. "He grabbed me and said I own you," she says about her ex-husband, Jack Gordon, whom she says turned her publicly against her brother Michael and the rest of the Jackson family.

She also tells Dahler that Gordon once "took my head and he started banging it on the corner of the table in the room and just banging it and banging it."

Gordon has denied LaToya's allegations that he beat her.

The report also features an interview with Katherine Jackson, mother of Michael and LaToya.

Copyright ? 2005 ABC News Internet Ventures

Famous pair willing to testify for Jackson
Mood:  happy
Topic: Main News

12jan05

LOS ANGELES: Home Alone star Macaulay Culkin and Britney Spears' famous choreographer Wade Robson are willing to testify their pal Michael Jackson did not molest them on their childhood sleepovers at Neverland.

The pair, who hung out with Jackson when they were kids more than a decade ago, may be called as defence witnesses at Jackson's upcoming child molestation trial, a source close to Jackson said.
"Mac and Wade have always said very clearly from the beginning ? nothing ever happened. Michael did not molest them," the source said.

The pair and another young Jackson pal, Australian-born Brett Barnes, 21, have said that if they are called, they will testify on Michael's behalf. Culkin's representative Michelle Bega, however, yesterday said: "He's not involved in the proceedings at this time."

Culkin, godfather to Jackson's son Prince Michael, has admitted he and his brothers slept in Jackson's bed but he says they amused themselves with food fights, not fondling.

Jackson is charged with molesting a then-13-year-old cancer survivor in 2003 and conspiring to hold the boy and his family hostage at Neverland. He denies all charges.

Prosecutors want jurors to hear testimony about seven other boys who allegedly have been linked to Jackson sexually in press reports or public or private accusations, ABC News in the U.S. reported.



privacy terms ? Advertiser Newspapers Pty Limited

Jackson Transcripts Graphic
Mood:  irritated
Topic: Prosecutor Press Release

By Associated Press

January 14, 2005, 10:21 AM EST

LOS ANGELES -- Michael Jackson's accuser told a grand jury that the pop star closed his eyes tightly while molesting him on a bed, according to an ABC News report that quotes from transcripts of the testimony.

The boy described Jackson's alleged crimes in graphic detail, according to the network, which said its "Primetime Live" program reviewed more than 1,900 pages of testimony.

Details on the transcripts, which have not been released, were reported Thursday on ABC's Web site and quoted on "Good Morning America." A fuller report was planned Thursday evening on "Primetime Live."

The defense initially declined comment, citing a gag order in the case. But later Jackson attorney Thomas Mesereau Jr. said in a statement that the defense strongly objected to the leak of sealed grand jury testimony.

"The witnesses who testified before the grand jury were never subjected to cross-examination or impeachment by the defense," he said. "By law, no judge or defense lawyer was allowed to be present in the grand jury room. Furthermore, the defense had no opportunity to call its own witnesses to refute or criticize this one-sided proceeding."

A note on the statement issued by a Jackson spokeswoman noted it was approved by the court.

The accuser told prosecutors who questioned him before the Santa Barbara County grand jury that Jackson never spoke to him during the alleged abuse and the two didn't discuss it later, ABC reported.

According to transcripts, the boy said that when he was molested, he looked over at the pop star and "his eyes were like squinching really tight."

Jackson was indicted in April on multiple counts of molestation and a count of conspiracy involving child abduction, false imprisonment and extortion.

Some counts accuse him of administering alcohol to further child molestation. The accuser, who had cancer and lost a kidney when a surgeon removed a tumor, said he told Jackson he shouldn't drink alcohol because of his medical condition, according to the transcripts.

"And so it harms my kidney for I drink that stuff," the accuser was quoted as saying. "But he would just say, 'It's OK.' And he would just keep on telling me to drink."

Normally, grand jury transcripts are made public in California 10 days after they're received by a defendant. But the judge has kept the Jackson transcripts sealed, along with most other documents in the case.

Jury selection in the case begins Jan. 31. Pretrial hearings have been set for Jan. 21 and Jan. 27 to consider issues such as whether a child-abuse expert can testify and what should be included on the questionnaire to be given to jurors.

Copyright ? 2005, The Associated Press

Latest Jackson ruling shields evidence
Mood:  irritated
Topic: Main News
LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- Less than a month before Michael Jackson's child-molestation trial is scheduled to begin, the court continued a pattern of shielding all evidence from public view Monday, releasing rulings and motions with blacked-out pages.

Only one written order by Judge Rodney Melville was released in detail -- a decision to deny in part and grant in part a defense motion to suppress evidence seized from the office of Jackson's personal assistant.

But the language of that decision was oblique and provided only vague clues to what was being admitted and what was suppressed.

"I've never seen a case with this level of secrecy," said Loyola University law professor Laurie Levenson. "You'd think we were dealing with the Pentagon Papers.

"Everyone is filing papers in code and we're on the eve of trial. It may be that the prosecutors are bending over backwards to protect the rights of Michael Jackson. But it's impossible to tell."

Jackson's trial is scheduled to start January 31, and one more pretrial hearing is scheduled for January 12.

One of the documents released by the judge in a heavily blacked-out form was a prosecution report on a search of Jackson's Neverland ranch on November 18, 2003.

The cryptic entries included a statement that investigators had received information from a confidential informant who told them that Jackson had told the informant something. But whatever was stated was blacked out in the released documents.

The prosecution had asked to seal from public view all parts of specified search warrants. The judge went through them and blacked out sections he felt should not be public because they might prejudice Jackson's right to a fair trial.

The judge's ruling regarding suppression of seized evidence had to do with a search last September 15 at an office in a detached garage where his personal assistant kept Jackson's file cabinets and computers.

He found that Jackson had "a reasonable expectation of privacy" as to materials kept in that office.

Melville said, "There is a concern for invasion of the defense camp when the case has been pending for a number of months and records of correspondence with counsel are kept by the client."

But he added, "The search warrant was not intended to reach any such materials and careful efforts have been made to avoid disclosure of attorney-client matters."

He said one folder labeled with the name of Jackson's attorney, Thomas Mesereau Jr., contained only newspaper, magazine and Internet pages and clippings. However, he ordered sections of that file suppressed as well as others whose contents were not described.

Jackson, 46, has pleaded not guilty to charges of molesting a boy, conspiracy and administering an intoxicating agent, alcohol, to his alleged victim.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Find this article at:
http://www.cnn.com/2005/LAW/01/03/michael.jackson.ap/index.html

Did the mother of Michael Jackson's accuser go looking for support from the readers of a local newspaper?
Mood:  irritated
Topic: Main News
MJJF eNews #460 - Monday Jan 3, 2005

Did the mother of Michael Jackson's accuser go looking for support from the readers of a local newspaper? That's what "Celebrity Justice" is exclusively reporting.

It is said that in 2000, the year that Jackson first met his accuser, an article about the boy and his family appeared in Mid Valley News, a community paper of the town El Monte, just outside of Los Angeles. The paper ran a emotional appear to its readers, asking for financial charity.

"Our car has been repossessed," the boy's mother was quoted as having said. "One chemotherapy injection costs more than $12,000."

Connie Keenan, Mid Valley News editor, has come forward and spoke exclusively with "CJ" regarding the incident. She characterizes the accuser's mother most uncharitably.

"My gut level: she's a shark. She was after money," Keenan said to the show. "My readers were used. My staff was used. It's sickening."

In this same year (2000), Keenan also explained, the mother had approached the newspaper and pitched her story. "She pleaded her case that her son needed all sorts of medical care and they had no financial means to provide it."

Keenan agreed to run the story inviting her readers to assist the family, however, she recalled that almost from the very beginning, there were signals, including the fact that the mother "wanted the money sent to her in her name, at her home address."

That is said to be just the beginning. According to Keenan, the story regarding the family's plight was assigned to reporter Christie Causer, who was so touched by what she had heard that she brought food to the family on Thanksgiving Day. But, Keenan relayed that "the mother, instead of being grateful that this woman brought her a complete Thanksgiving dinner, said 'I'd rather have the money. This is nice, but I'd rather have the money.'"

Keenan promised that her paper would solicit funds to cover the ailing boy's medical expenses only if his mother opened a trust account to receive them. "CJ" reports that nine days before the story ran in the paper, the mother opened an account in her name for the benefit of her son at a Washington Mutual Bank and deposited one cent. That account, they say, was not a trust account.

The Mid Valley News article provided its readers with a road map as to how to make their donations: the name of the bank, the account number, and even the routing number. In the first three weeks following the run of the article, $965 was deposited into the account and $750 was promptly withdrawn.

Keenan said that the raised money wasn't enough for the boy's mother.

"She really wanted another story done on her son because they just didn't make enough money on the first article," Keenan remarked. "And I told her -- and I can be a crusty old broad -- 'we're not doing another story on your son.'"

Keenan recalled the mother having told her, "'Well, I'll take it someplace else,'" and Keenan said she responded to her with a "'Fine.'"

There's more. It turns out that the boy in question was then being treated at Kaiser Permanente at absolutely no cost to the family. There were no medical bills. All treatments the boy was receiving at the time were covered by insurance. The boy's father had been a teamster member who worked at a supermarket facility in the Los Angeles area.

Paul Kenny, head of a teamster's union in Los Angeles, spoke with "CJ" and confirmed that the teamsters negotiated a super health care coverage deal for members.

"They're covered 100% under HMOs," Kenny stated. "Including Kaiser, which is an HMO."

Kenny added, "There was no cost to [the boy's father] out of pocket, at all. Everything should be covered 100% under his contract. Everything. There is [sic] no exceptions."

When Keenan was asked if it was her impression that the family had to pay for the boy's treatment out-of-pocket, she said that it was.

"Of course it was," she was quoted.

Years following the article's run, when Santa Barbara prosecutor Thomas Sneddon filed molestation charges against Jackson, Keenan realized that the boy from her paper's article and Jackson's accuser were one and the same, and made contact with Jackson's former counsel Mark Geragos.

"I just had this gut feeling that something was wrong here. So I sent a copy of the [Mid Valley News] to Mr. Geragos, who was representing Michael Jackson at the time," Keenan stated. "Because maybe there's a grain of truth to what Michael Jackson is saying -- 'I didn't do it' -- or maybe it's just to stop a shark."

Both Keenan and Causer reported that Jackson?s defense team has recently contacted them.

A source close to the accuser's mother insisted that none of the money collected was misspent. The source wouldn't reveal how exactly the money was spent.

Source: Celebrity Justice/MJJForum





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Michael Jackson Case Latest: Ex May Testify Against Him
Mood:  surprised
January 2, 2005, 2:21:15

LATEST: MICHAEL JACKSON's ex-wife DEBBIE ROWE is reportedly so furious the troubled singer is witholding her alimony payments - she's considering testifying against him at his child molestation court case, reports British newspaper the DAILY STAR.

The BAD star faces 10 charges relating to claims he sexually abused a teenage boy at his Neverland Ranch home.

And Rowe has threatened to reveal intimate secrets about Jackson which could jeopardise his case, unless he agrees to pay her annual $1 million (#526,315) alimony. She is also considering fighting for sole custody of their children, PRINCE MICHAEL, seven, and PARIS, six.

Prosecution Subpoena's Bob Jones!!
Mood:  surprised

Court TV has confirmed that Jackson's long-time right-hand man, Bob Jones, was served a subpoena in the Los Angeles office of attorney,Richard M.Steingard. This 20-year veteran of MJJ Productions has been told by the prosecution that he should be ready to testify at Michael Jackson's child molestation trial sometime in April. The subpoena orders Jones to turn over to authorities all relevant files, diaries and photographs in his possession. Jones has also been ordered to hand over the chapters of his in-progress tell-all book which is said to be about half written.

Jones had worked for the Jacksons since their Motown days and was one of Michael's most trusted confidants until he was summarily fired recently by Michael's youngest brother, Randy. No severance pay,no vacation pay, no "thank you very much." The termination could turn out to be a mammoth mistake, as Bob Jones traveled the world with Michael Jackson for decades. He's the only top-ranking insider who never signed a confidentiality agreement. He knows the pop star's secrets and now he's finally able and willing to write an insider's expose all about it.

To get an idea of how devastating Jones' book could be for Jackson,consider this excerpt from his recent book proposal, which is making the rounds of New York publishing houses:

"Bob Jones knows where every single body is buried in Jackoland ? imagine the possibilities. Any ambiguity about the nature of Michael Jackson's many relationships with young boys will be laid to rest here ?"

Bob Jones recently spoke out saying he didn't want to be a witness for either side, but if called, "I won't lie for Michael Jackson."

Source: Court TV..

Jackson Defense To Invite Jurors To Neverland
Mood:  suave
Defense attorneys for Michael Jackson plan to ask the jury in his child molestation trial to visit his Neverland ranch in a strategy designed to show that he used his home to entertain children, not lure them, ABC News has learned.

Jackson's legal team, sources told ABC News, has launched a double-barreled defense that will attempt to show that he is a protector and benefactor of children and that the boy he is accused of molesting and his family are troubled and out to get money from him.

Source: ABC News

Jackson hosts kids' party
Mood:  party time!

Sunday, December 19, 2004 Posted: 1:22 AM EST (0622 GMT)

LOS OLIVOS, California (AP) -- Christmas came early for some 200 children who got to play at Michael Jackson's amusement park and meet Santa Claus.

"I hope you have a wonderful day. Merry Christmas. I love you," the pop singer called out to the children Friday from the driveway of his estate.

Jackson, who faces trial next year on child molestation charges, appeared happy during the few minutes he spoke to the arriving throng.

One of the youngsters shouted, "We love you."

"I love you more," Jackson replied before putting an umbrella over his head and walking back toward his house.

Jackson spokeswoman Raymone K. Bain said the entertainer chose to make an unusual personal appearance as a surprise for the last group of children touring Neverland before the Christmas holidays.

Bain said there was no relationship between the event and Jackson's upcoming trial.

Santa Barbara County authorities have charged Jackson, 46, with molesting a boy, conspiracy and administering an intoxicating agent, alcohol, to his alleged victim.

Investigators have carried out raids on Neverland, and in a recent court filing that seeks to introduce evidence of other purported crimes that went uncharged, prosecutors described the estate as "a veritable paradise" for children.

Friday's visitors, from six organizations and ranging in age from about 3 or 4 years to their teens, were bused to Neverland and then rode a train up from the parking lot. They included children with special needs from Santa Barbara and some affiliated with the First AME Church in Los Angeles, according to a list of groups issued to reporters. Jackson defense attorney Thomas Mesereau Jr. attends the First AME church.

The Rev. Brenda Lamothe, executive assistant to First AME Pastor John Hunter, said the church did not authorize a group to go to Neverland.

Bain said charitable and civic groups bring children to Neverland at least three times a month to play on the amusement park rides, see its zoo and watch movies.

Neverland, in the scenic Santa Barbara County countryside, is a fairy-tale theme park with streams, waterfalls and a lake. The grounds are decorated with bronze statues of children at play.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright 2004 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Michael Jackson hosts 200 children at Neverland party
Mood:  happy

LOS OLIVOS, Calif. (AP) ? Christmas came early for some 200 children who got to play at Michael Jackson's amusement park and meet Santa Claus.

Michael Jackson invites charitable and civic groups to bring children to Neverland.
By Aaron Lambert, AP/Santa Maria Times

"I hope you have a wonderful day. Merry Christmas. I love you," the pop singer called out to the children Friday from the driveway of his estate.

Jackson, who faces trial next year on child molestation charges, appeared happy during the few minutes he spoke to the arriving throng.

One of the youngsters shouted, "We love you!"

"I love you more," Jackson replied before putting an umbrella over his head and walking back toward his house.

Jackson spokeswoman Raymone K. Bain said the entertainer chose to make an unusual personal appearance as a surprise for the last group of children touring Neverland before the Christmas holidays.

Bain said there was no relationship between the event and Jackson's upcoming trial.

Santa Barbara County authorities have charged Jackson, 46, with molesting a boy, conspiracy and administering an intoxicating agent, alcohol, to his alleged victim.

Investigators have carried out raids on Neverland, and in a recent court filing that seeks to introduce evidence of other purported crimes that went uncharged, prosecutors described the estate as "a veritable paradise" for children.

Friday's visitors, from six organizations and ranging in age from about 3 or 4 years to their teens, were bused to Neverland and then rode a train up from the parking lot. They included children with special needs from Santa Barbara and some affiliated with the First AME Church in Los Angeles, according to a list of groups issued to reporters. Jackson defense attorney Thomas Mesereau Jr. attends the First AME church.

At First AME, the Rev. Brenda Lamothe, executive assistant to Pastor John Hunter, said the church did not authorize a group to go to Neverland.

Bain said charitable and civic groups bring children to Neverland at least three times a month to play on the amusement park rides, see its zoo and watch movies. On Friday, Jackson was showing "The Polar Express" in his movie theater.

In his brief appearance, Jackson smiled, waved and at one point looked as if he would come back and play with the children, but instead got into a vehicle that took him off the property.

Neverland, in the scenic Santa Barbara County countryside, is a fairy-tale theme park with streams, waterfalls and a lake. The grounds are decorated with bronze statues of children at play. Two elephants, a camel and a baby llama were on hand as the children entered. Flamingos stood nearby and the sun shone brightly from a blue sky.

The estate provided lunch, candy canes, popcorn and a Santa Claus. The children could also play in a video arcade with unlimited games.

One of the parents who escorted children on the visit to Neverland said he had no qualms.

"They asked us to come and we came and had a great time," said Imari Conway, a Los Angeles man who brought his three children. "You see a whole other side of Michael here and it's hard to believe there are such charges. So much good is being done and it shouldn't go untold."

Bain said many organizations write Jackson to ask to bring children to Neverland and an events staff decides who will be invited.

"Generally Mr. Jackson is not here all the time," she said. "There are events here daily. He wanted to surprise the kids. He has given his whole life to children and charities."

Bain said Jackson's spirits were up.

"Considering everything going on, he seemed to be well," she said.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2004 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Find this article at:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2004-12-18-jackson-neverland_x.htm?csp=34

Chat with Ms. Hughes
Mood:  sad

The Group Discussion with Ms Geraldine Hughes, was spectacular. We were able to meet and greet fans-supporters-interested individuals from around the world. I would like to thank Geraldine for her timely answers, and her patience with the so many questions that were being asked of her within the hours spent in the chatroom. Also special thanks goes out to Dollbaby for all her efforts and inspiration in putting this together along with her Media Marketing team for Ms Geraldine Hughes, I am pleased to be apart of this team as well. Special thanks goes out to Mr. Bob Davis, for hosting the chatroom that housed many of us at one time. Thanks all. Major love.

To purchased Redemption, "The Truth Behind The Michael Jackson Molestation Allegations," go to this link:
http://www.redemption-michaeljacksonstory.com


From last nights chat at the Soul-Patrol website
http://www.soul-patrol.com/ - December 14, 2004, Here are Ms. Hughes answers/quotes/words to interested parties within the chatroom.
Soul-Patrol Chat room at http://www.soul-patrol.com/chat

Ghughes: I am here to answer questions about my book "Redemption: The Truth Behind the (1993) Child Molestation Allegation"

Ghughes: I was the legal secretary in 1993 to the attorney and I witnessed the extortion scheme against Michael Jackson.

Ghughes: I came forth in 1993 and gave my information to the investigators, however, when the case settled, it went nowhere.

Ghughes: I knew that I was carrying information about this case that most people didn't know. Information that pointed to Michael's innocence.

Ghughes: Amazon.com or any Barnes and Nobles, or Boarders should be able to order the book.

Ghughes: I did ALL major talk shows, MSNBC, Scarsborough Country, Bill O'Reilly, etc. However, they aired my interview once only!

Ghughes: My favorite part of the book is "A Ram In The Bush." I am explaining why I was in the right place, at the wrong time. I further explain how God is on MJ's side because God gave Michael something he didn't give his accuser, a witness!

Ghughes: The most exciting part of the book is "The Ex Parte Motion." This part tells exactly what triggered them to launch the child molestation allegation against Michael.

Ghughes: I did an interview at the Jackson's home, but back in April or May. Not recently.

Ghughes: I've done an interview with Jermaine and Mr. Joe Jackson. While doing interviews I've met some of MJ's family. I haven't met MJ as of yet.

Ghughes: I've been told that MJ has read my book and loves it! However, because of the gag order, he is unable to do anything to assist or comment.

Ghughes: I've been told that Jordy is estranged from his father. I don't know if true or not!

Ghughes: In order to testify in MJ's favor, he [Jordan] has to go against his father. That is hard for anyone to do.

Ghughes: When he is on stage, he is performing.

Ghughes: No one that can really help Michael's case is being subpoenaed by the prosecutor.

Ghughes: I don't buy the Sodium Amythal theory because it was put out by Evan Chandler. I believe his statements "we're moving according to a certain plan that is not mine."

Ghughes: I've returned to work full-time. Unless something changes between now and the end of Jan, I don't see being able to attend the court hearings.

Ghughes: I am the only one disputing the Sodium amytal theory. I saw something entirely different take place.

Ghughes: Redemption has run full gammit. I would still recommend everyone to read so you can thoroughly understand what really happened in 1993.

Ghughes: Ray Chandler spent a lot of time trying to disprove the main points in my book that proves MJ's innocence.

Ghughes: In spite of the media downplaying it, it was quite successful due to MJ's supporters all over the world.

Ghughes: I will give credit to whom credit is due at the end of this chat session.

Ghughes: Everyone disappeared after the false allegations were launched; mainly because MJ has fans all over the world and they were afraid for their safety.

Ghughes: My book explains why MJ was forced to settle in 1993, which was at the advice of his attorneys. But he DID NOT pay the $$$ settlement. It was paid by his insurance company.

Ghughes: The entire civil case was about money.

Ghughes: I do not have evidence. I was an eye witness. While Ray Chandler's book tried to discredit me, inadvertently proved my contentions.

Ghughes: Jordy was a 12 year old, easily influenced child at the time. He was also interested in making movies, like his dad. So he had a very vivid imagination, capable of creating believable story lines.

Ghughes: My book "Redemption" explains clearly why MJ was forced to settle. If the court system was working for him, he would have stood a chance in court. However, as many of you know, for African Americans, sometimes the legal system doesn't work for us like it should.

Ghughes: My next book will be about the 2003 case called "MichaelGate: The Conspiracy Theories." This book will explore all the possible conspiracy theories that most people believe is fueling the 2003 case.

Ghughes: Before everyone goes, I'd like to thank Dollbaby; The Music Lady, Bob Davis, Yolandria, Trish, and everyone that bought Redemption and/or supported it.

Ghughes: I believe that MJ will be totally vindicated. I just heard from another inside source that said THEY HAVE NOTHING!!!

Ghughes: Redemption is only a threat to those who do not want to hear the truth.

Ghughes: While researching MJ's life, I found out that he has spent his life caring for the children of the world, not hurting them.

Ghughes: He has lived an impeccable roll-modeled life in front of the cameras HIS WHOLE LIFE. We've never heard of him on drugs, alcohol, etc.

Ghughes: I did know all of this about MJ before writing the book. After completing the book, I sat back and cried. I couldn't believe that anyone would accuse him of ever hurting a child, when he's spent his entire life helping them.

Ghughes: He did not have to submit to the body search in 1993. He suffered the humiliation of it "just to prove his innocence."

Ghughes: They say you know someone by their music. "Heal the World." "Man In the Mirror; Make that change." "It doesn't matter if your black or white." What about the "Earthsong." This is who MJ really is. A caring individual that truly cares not only about children, about mankind all over the world.

Ghughes: I have ministry children who spend the night at my house all the time. I am only careful with the opposite sex (boys) because I don't want no assumptions or accidents. However, when my girls come to my house for sleep overs, they march straight to my bedroom and take over my bed, my remote control, my popcorn. Maybe its the children that insists on sleepovers and treating MJ like he is one of the boys and not vice verse.

Ghughes: No false allegations will ever stop me from loving my children.

Ghughes: We are living in a witch hunt society that loves to see a giant fall; especially if that giant is a Black megastar named MJ.

Ghughes: I believe God used her to get me to write the book and it was her courage that allowed me to go forth.

Thank you, Ms Geraldine Hughes, for your insight on the 1993 case. Many were enlighten.




~~sending out a major love~~
"The Music Lady's"

http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/positivevoices4mjj/join
http://www.mjjfan.2ya.com
http://www.mjredemption.com/

Jackson Responds To Latest Claims!!
Mood:  hug me

To My Fans,

Recently, there has been a rumor circulating where I am accused of bad-mouthing my fans.

I was deeply hurt when I heard about this. As an artist and performer, the most rewarding part of my work is to know that I have such loyal and supportive fans. I would never resort to any such negativity. Like so many other allegations, this is a lie. I love my fans and appreciate you all so much. I would never take that for granted.

You have my undying love, as always,

Michael Jackson

Source: MJJSource ....

Fan Club President Defends Michael Jackson
Mood:  special

Michael Jackson and his Neverland Ranch are under scrutiny again. Santa Barbara investigators searched the pop star's estate over the weekend.

The entertainer is accused of molesting a boy and luring him with alcohol. Despite the charges against him, his fan club president -- living in Corpus Christi -- claims Michael simply didn't do it.

Deborah Dannelly, the fan club president, says, "Obviously I believe that he's innocent and the experience I've had with him and the times I've been with him...This isn't the man i know at all."

Jackson's trial is set for the end of January.


Find this article at:
http://www.cbs10kztv.com/news/headlines/1131542.html

Jabs at Jackson aren't wonderful
Mood:  happy
Posted on Tue, Dec. 07, 2004

Stevie Wonder has criticized Eminem for ridiculing Michael Jackson in his latest video.

Rapper Eminem refers to Jackson's plastic surgery and the child molestation charges faced by Jackson in the video for latest single, Lose It, reports the BBC.

''Kicking someone when he's down is not a good thing,'' Wonder told Billboard magazine.

``I was disappointed that he would let himself go to such a level.''

Eminem was unavailable for comment.

''I have much respect for his work, though I don't think he's as good as [late rapper] 2Pac,'' Wonder continued.

The 54-year-old star said that Eminem ``succeeded on the backs of people predominantly in that lower pay bracket, people of color.''

In October, Jackson asked TV stations to stop playing Eminem's video, describing it as ''outrageous and disrespectful.'' The rapper dresses as Jackson in the video, and is shown on a bed with young boys. His nose also falls off and his hair catches fire.

Cable channel BET responded by banning the video, its president Robert Johnson saying he felt it inappropriate to disparage a celebrity.

The video also mocks Madonna, Pee Wee Herman and MC Hammer.

Deputies Get Michael Jackson DNA Sample
Mood:  incredulous

Sun Dec 5, 9:46 PM ET

By LINDA DEUTSCH, AP Special Correspondent

LOS ANGELES - Michael Jackson (news) voluntarily gave a DNA sample to authorities, returning to his Neverland Ranch estate a day after he left during a search by sheriff's deputies, a source close to the case said Sunday.

When Santa Barbara County sheriff's deputies arrived with search warrants Friday, his lawyer instructed him to leave and take his children with him, the source told The Associated Press.


Jackson's attorney, Thomas Mesereau, flew by helicopter from Los Angeles to Jackson's ranch in Los Olivos, 100 miles northwest, when he heard the search warrant had been served, said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.


On Saturday, when the deputies returned, they asked for a DNA sample and Jackson returned by car to the estate and supplied the sample voluntarily, the source said.


Authorities had never before asked for a DNA sample, the source said. A cotton swab was used to collect the sample from Jackson's mouth.


It wasn't immediately clear how authorities planned to use the DNA in Jackson's child molestation case.


Also while at Jackson's ranch, sheriff's investigators measured rooms, trying to establish the sight lines from one room to another, the source said.


The 46-year-old entertainer has pleaded not guilty to charges of child molestation, conspiracy and administering an intoxicating agent, alcohol, to his alleged victim. He is scheduled to stand trial Jan. 31.


Loyola University law professor Laurie Levenson, a former federal prosecutor, said she was surprised District Attorney Tom Sneddon had not requested DNA earlier.


"We don't know whether this means they are scrambling or tying up loose ends, or it's just Sneddon going over the top," she said.


From a public relations standpoint, however, the prosecution has scored a coup with the highly publicized searches, she said.


"They've certainly gotten a lot of attention and, even if there's a gag order, they got the message out: 'We've got DNA,'" Levenson said.


Authorities spent more than eight hours at the estate Friday, and less than two hours Saturday.


Santa Barbara County sheriff's officials have refused to discuss the visits except to issue a statement saying they are "part of an ongoing criminal investigation."


Jackson's estate was first searched in November 2003, shortly before he was charged.


Monday is the deadline for prosecutors and defense lawyers to complete the case's discovery process, in which both sides exchange evidence they have gathered during pretrial investigations.

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Investigators search Jackson?s Neverland ranch
Mood:  sad

MSNBC-TV reports search involves Jackson?s bed

MSNBC staff and news service reports
Updated: 5:57 p.m. ET Dec. 3, 2004


LOS OLIVOS, Calif. - Sheriff?s investigators with a new search warrant raided Michael Jackson?s Neverland estate again Friday, just weeks before the pop star is scheduled to go on trial on charges of child molestation.

Authorities would not say why they returned more than a year after dozens of investigators first raided the storybook estate while they were still drawing up charges against Jackson.

In a statement, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff?s Department said only that the search was ?part of an ongoing criminal investigation.? Spokesman Sgt. Chris Pappas said investigators entered Neverland at 9 a.m. and remained there hours later.

Jackson attorney Thomas Mesereau Jr. had no comment.

However, MSNBC-TV's Dan Abrams reported that his sources say investigators searched Jackson's bed for DNA.

Attorneys on both sides of the case are barred from commenting by a court gag order.

Jackson was leaving Neverland when the officers arrived, and did not stay around, said a source close to the family, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Jackson, 46, was charged in December 2003 with molesting a boy and plying him with alcohol. His trial is set to begin Jan. 31.

A new search so late in the proceedings is very unusual, said a former federal prosecutor who has been following the case.

?It may mean that the witnesses they are preparing for trial now are remembering things at the ranch that they did not mention before,? said Laurie Levenson, a professor at Loyola Law School. ?They may want to follow up on how certain things looked.?

However, she said the search could also be connected to a dispute that has been going on between the prosecution and defense over the sharing of evidence. The defense has been resisting turning over material to the prosecution.

Levenson said if the search yields any physical evidence, it could be of dubious value. ?At this stage, if they found anything, if I were Jackson?s folks I?d say it was planted. So I?m not so convinced how valuable this would be,? she said.

The late-stage search could also help the defense win a delay, Levenson suggested. ?How do you go to trial in a case when they are still serving search warrants?? she said.

Neverland, set amid the emerald hills and horse ranches about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles, was first searched in November 2003. At least 60 investigators from the Sheriff?s Department and district attorney?s office took part.

The theme park-like estate has a mansion, zoo, bumper cars, a merry-go-round and Ferris wheel. Jackson hosted many children?s parties there.

? 2004 MSNBC Interactive
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6645815/