Mesereau: Gag Order Not Violated

Wednesday marked the end of the third full day of deliberations in the Michael Jackson trial. Jurors have now been deliberating for 20 hours as hundreds of fans continue to show their vocal support for the singer outside the courthouse and his nearby Neverland ranch.Controversy continued to reign as a Jackson spokesperson dismissed media speculation that the Jackson camp had violated a court-imposed gag order. The week has been marked by persistent media speculation into happenings in and around the courthouse. Raymone Bain held an impromptu press conference in Santa Maria, telling journalists and fans that the singer was “taking it easy” with his family at Neverland. "They are a strong family, and they rely on their strong faith," she said. "They realize the seriousness, but their mood was upbeat." Bain added that Jackson was spending his time with his three children and meeting with his attorneys. "He's in good spirits, but as you all can imagine, he's very nervous. He has confidence in his innocence," she said. Statement from Mesereau Shortly after the conference, lead defense attorney Thomas Mesereau issued a court-approved statement saying, "I have not authorized anyone to speak or hold any press conferences on behalf of Michael Jackson or his family. A gag order is in effect which the defense team will continue to honor." Sources in the Jackson team said the statement was not directed at Bain, who runs all statements via the attorney. In a telephone interview later that day Bain said: "It appears Mr. Mesereau is concerned about a number of people who have been going to the court, using the court as a forum. He's concerned people who do not have the authority to speak on Mr. Jackson's behalf are out there." Source: AP/eMJey