King of Pop pleads not guilty to child-molestation

Michael Jackson pleaded not guilty on Friday, Jan. 16 to nine counts of child-molestation charges.
Jackson surrendered to authorities in November based on accusations that he had committed child-molestation in early 2003. He was later charged with nine felony counts: seven counts of lewd acts upon a child under the age of 14 and two counts of administering an intoxicating agent (liquor) to a child for the purpose of committing a crime. Jackson could face 21 years behind bars if he is found guilty on all counts.
His arraignment in Santa Maria, California, on Friday began on a rocky note, as Jackson arrived to court late because of transportation complications. His family and close friends showed their support for Jackson by appearing at the arraignment.
After Judge Rodney Melville admonished Jackson for being late, he accepted Jackson’s plea of not guilty. He also granted the prosecution’s request for a gag order. This order prohibits the defendant, attorneys, assistants and potential witnesses from making public comments about the case.
Jackson’s next court date has been set for Feb. 13.
Following the arraignment, Jackson exited the courthouse and climbed on top of his SUV, dancing and waving to his fans who turned out at the scene to support the King of Pop. Invitations were distributed to the fans, inviting them to spend the afternoon at his Neverland Ranch in the “spirit of love and togetherness.”
Thousands of fans turned out at the ranch to enjoy the rides, zoo and entertainment. Cotton candy, popcorn, slurpees, turkey dogs and fried chicken were given to the fans. A live band, hired by Jackson, played in the park near his theatre, where the latest big-screen version of “Peter Pan” was playing.
Cell phones, cameras, cigarettes and purses were not permitted onto Jackson’s property. However, the fans did not seem to mind.
Jackson stayed inside his house while his fans enjoyed his ranch.
Students at Georgia College & State University have mixed reactions to the Michael Jackson drama.
“I think Michael Jackson is troubled, but I am not sure if he is guilty because the media can often twist the truth,” said Sarah Coggins, senior psychology major. “I do think that he is way too friendly with children.”
“If he is guilty of what has happened to these children, he should follow through with the punishment or sentence,” said Rachel Bargainnier, junior education major. “He shouldn’t get off just because he is famous.”
“I don’t know if he is guilty or not,” said Jennifer Holcomb, senior psychology major. “However, I do think it’s strange that he’s repeatedly accused of the same thing.”

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Jan 23 2004. Filed under Other. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry