CNN is reporting that jurors today will hear opening statements and testimony from the first witness in the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor, Conrad Murray, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter.
The court will not allow Murray's lawyers to show video of Jackson's March 2009 announcement of This Is It concerts in London. It reportedly would show jurors "Michael Jackson's state of mind and demeanor" and support the testimony by his makeup artist that Jackson was furious that the number of scheduled shows was increased from 10 to 50, defense lawyer Nareg Gourjian told the judge, according to CNN.
Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney David Walgren objected to the video, saying evidence about Jackson's mental and physical health four months before his June 25, 2009 death is not relevant.
Murray could face up to four years in prison if the jury finds him guilty.
The Los Angeles coroner has ruled that Jackson's death on June 25, 2009, was caused by an overdose of the surgical anesthetic propofol combined with other drugs.
Prosecutors have accused Murray, who served as Jackson's personal and full-time physician at the time, of having a role in the overdose.
They contend Murray used a makeshift intravenous drip to administer propofol intended to help Jackson sleep, a practice they argue violated the standard of care and led to the pop music icon's death.
Source: CNN.com.
An eccentric, Jackson was lampooned and demonized by critics for most of his adult life. Hopefully the conclusion of the trial will allow him to rest in peace, as well as close the book on what appears to be a horrific chapter in Murray's life.
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