Murray Pleads Not Guilty in Court
The doctor responsible for the death of the world’s most popular singer voluntarily appeared in the Los Angeles court at 1:30 PM on Monday, February 8, and pleaded not guilty. Conrad Murray is being tried for the involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson. If proven, his punishment carries a maximum of four years in prison.
Murray did not appear in public with handcuffs. But he was then taken to a holding facility and released temporarily after posting $75,000 bail. This bail is three times the usual rate for the crime of “involuntary manslaughter.” Of course, the prosecution had requested $300,000 bail.
It is said that Murray left Los Angeles and will go to Las Vegas or Houston. He surrendered his passport and is not allowed to cross the borders of the United States.
In addition, Judge Keith Schwartz told Murray that his right to prescribe sedatives and anesthetics—especially propofol—would be limited. The judge told Murray in court: “I don’t want you to sedate anyone.”
The next court session will be held on April 5.
Conrad Murray on the way into court
Police were present to control the crowd and maintain security at the location. Sounds of supporters of the King of Pop, along with reporters and photographers, gathered around the Los Angeles courthouse, which is next to the city’s international airport. About 50 supporters held a large banner with the message “Justice for Michael.”
When Murray arrived at court, he was met with shouts of “Murderer!” and “Killer!” from a group of supporters.
Catherine and Joe, Michael’s parents, as well as his sister LaToya and his brothers Jermain, Tito, Jackie, and Randy were present in court. Michael’s family members do not believe the charge of “involuntary manslaughter” is enough.
After the Monday session ended, Catherine, Michael’s mother, said about her son’s killer: “He’s a demon.”
Joe Jackson, in response to the question of why he came to court, said: “For my son.” He also said that all he wants is for justice to be served for his son.
Jermain, Michael’s brother, also said when leaving court that the charge of “involuntary manslaughter” is not enough for Murray.
It is said that Murray left Los Angeles and will go to Las Vegas or Houston. He surrendered his passport and is not allowed to cross the borders of the United States.
In addition, Judge Keith Schwartz told Murray that his right to prescribe sedatives and anesthetics—especially propofol—would be limited. The judge told Murray in court: “I don’t want you to sedate anyone.”
The next court session will be held on April 5.
Michael’s parents
Immediately after the session ended, LaToya Jackson announced in a statement that she believes her brother was murdered intentionally. She said that besides Murray, other doctors also had a hand in his death, and she will continue fighting until justice is achieved.
Michael’s father also appeared on Larry King’s talk show on CNN on Monday night and expressed similar views.
Source: eMJey / CNN