Another Jackson sexual abuse claim

The late Michael Jackson. Picture: AP

The late Michael Jackson. Picture: AP

Published May 8, 2013

Share

London - Michael Jackson has been posthumously accused of sexual abuse.

Choreographer Wade Robson filed legal documents on May 1 asking for money from the Michael Jackson Estate in compensation for childhood molestation at the hands of the late pop star - who died of acute Propofol intoxication in June 2009 - TMZ reports.

The deadline has passed for creditors to file claims against the estate, but Wade is asking the probate court to allow him to file a late creditor's claim. The complaint has been made under seal, meaning it is not available to the public, but it is said to specifically outline the alleged abuse and contains an affidavit from Dr. David Arrendondo, a San Francisco-based child psychiatrist.

Wade, now 30, met Michael when he was just five years old and began staying at the pop star's homes in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, including his Neverland Ranch, regularly between the ages of seven and 14.

Wade - who has worked with stars including Pink and Britney Spears - was one of the witnesses at Michael's child molestation trial in 2005, and his testimony, along with those of his sister and mother, were said to be instrumental in the 'Billie Jean' star's acquital, prompting his new claims to be labelled "absurd".

Tom Mesereau, who defended Michael in the 2005 court case, said: "It's absurd. He was one of the strongest witnesses for the defence at Michael Jackson's criminal trial in 2005. He was adamant under oath that he had never been molested at any time.

"He withstood very aggressive cross-examination by the prosecutor. He stood his ground and never wavered in saying Michael Jackson had done absolutely nothing improper to him."

The lawyer also told CNN it was "suspicious timing" for the claim to be filed now, at the start of the wrongful death trial which sees Michael's mother Katherine and children Prince, 16, Paris, 15, and Blanket, 11, taking action against concert promoters AEG Live over the King of Pop's passing.

AEG Live lawyers have said they would bring up the child molestation charges as part of their defence.

A spokesman for the Michael Jackson Estate said the executors may issue a statement later. - Bang Showbiz

Related Topics: