What Is the Purpose of Showing Disturbing Photos in Court?

So far, the trial for the charge of involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson has featured two pieces of disturbing evidence in the form of photos of the late King of Pop’s body.

One of these photos was taken about an hour after his death in the hospital, and the other was taken one day after his passing in the forensic autopsy room. Both photos deeply upset Michael Jackson’s family and fans.

Before the trial began, the prosecution announced that during the court sessions it would show photos of Michael Jackson. The second photo is far more disturbing than the first, and it appears the prosecutor followed a strategy—by alternating the order between them—to reduce the shock caused by viewing these images, preparing the public’s mind to accept them.

A legal expert believes the prosecution’s reason for showing these photos in court is to trigger a sense of closeness between the jury and the victim. By seeing the photos, they can understand the depth of the tragedy and the victim’s suffering.

Source: eMJey.com / CNN