Предварително изслушване 4. 01. 2011

Three of Michael Jackson's employees, including one who was with the pop star when he went into cardiac arrest, are expected to take the witness stand Tuesday at a preliminary hearing for Jackson’s doctor, Conrad Murray.

Michael Amir, Jackson's chief of staff; Alberto Alvarez, a security staffer; and Faheem Muhammad, chief of security, have been subpoenaed to testify for prosecutors seeking to prove they have enough evidence to try Murray for involuntary manslaughter, said the employees' lawyer, Carl Douglas.

Douglas, who declined to comment for the story, confirmed that he would appear with his clients following their court appearance Tuesday and make some brief comments.

Douglas, perhaps best known for being a member of O.J. Simpson's defense team, complained in August 2009 that his clients wanted to provide more information to LAPD detectives. Investigators had conducted "informal" interviews with the men about what they saw and heard June 25, 2009, the day Jackson died. One of the interviews lasted about two minutes, and the other filled a one-page transcript, Douglas said at the time. He maintained that some of their information could shed new light on the time line police had established covering Jackson's final hours and the actions of his doctor. Police eventually did conduct formal and complete interviews with all three men in late August 2009.

Alvarez was with Jackson and Murray in the pop star's bedroom in the moments before paramedics arrived and could provide independent insight into what transpired, the attorney said. But he would not elaborate on those details at the time.

In search-warrant documents released at the time, police said Murray told them he gave Jackson the powerful anesthetic propofol at 10:40 a.m., watched him for 10 minutes and went to the restroom briefly. When he returned about 11 a.m., Jackson had stopped breathing. Police said three phone calls totaling 47 minutes were made from Murray's phone, beginning at 11:18 a.m. -- all before 911 was called at 12:22 p.m.

Murray's attorney at the time was critical of the time line as "theory, not fact."

Douglas, who in 1993 served as an attorney for Jackson, said at the time that Amir received a frantic four-second message from Murray at 12:13 p.m. with words to the effect of "come quick."

-- Andrew Blankstein

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/01/trio-of-jackson-employees-expected-to-testify-at-hearing-for-michael-jacksons-doctor.html

____________________________________________________________

Update from AP about opening statement

A prosecutor has opened a hearing that will determine whether Michael Jackson's doctor will stand trial in the superstar's death by saying Jackson was already dead by the time help was summoned.

Dr. Conrad Murray appeared in a Los Angeles court Tuesday to begin a multi-day hearing during which prosecutors will lay out some of their evidence to support an involuntary manslaughter charge.

Prosecutor David Walgren says he will rely on Murray's statements to police, as well as text messages, phone records and expert testimony to show the doctor should stand trial.

He says evidence will show Murray waited at least 21 minutes to call 911 and ordered a bodyguard to help him clean up evidence before summoning help.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hyiO7SE47T7nzt0-33ieTU3T7nvA?docId=6074e1c1e64f470a8f5311fa73d68b40

_____________________________________________________________

another detail about the opening statement

Michael Jackson was already dead when his physician summoned help, a prosecutor said Tuesday to open a preliminary hearing that will determine whether the doctor stands trial for involuntary manslaughter.

Prosecutor David Walgren said evidence would show that Dr. Conrad Murray also tried to conceal his administering the powerful anesthetic propofol to the pop superstar, ordering a bodyguard to collect items before paramedics were called.

Jackson died in June 2009 and authorities contend Murray gave him a lethal dose of propofol and other sedatives in the bedroom of his rented mansion.

"The evidence will show through the expert testimony, by all accounts, Michael Jackson was dead in the bedroom at 100 North Carrolwood prior to the paramedics arriving," Walgren said.

Murray's attorney, Ed Chernoff, declined to give an opening statement.

At the end of the multi-day hearing, a judge will determine whether there is enough evidence for Murray to stand trial. The Houston cardiologist has pleaded not guilty and his attorneys have said he did not give Jackson anything that should have killed him.

The highly anticipated hearing opened with a bit of star power. The prosecution's first witness was Kenny Ortega, a choreographer working on Jackson's final concert series and who later directed the concert film "This Is It," which was based on rehearsal footage.
Walgren said he will rely on Murray's statements to police, as well as text messages, phone records and expert testimony to show the doctor should stand trial.

He said evidence will show Murray waited at least 21 minutes to call 911 and ordered a bodyguard to help him clean up evidence before summoning help. In the most favorable interpretation, Walgren said, Murray waited at least nine minutes before calling paramedics.

He faulted the doctor in opening statements for performing CPR on Jackson with one hand on his bed, rather than a hard surface as is generally required.

Walgren also plans to call several experts whom he said would testify, "there are a number of actions displayed by Dr. Murray that show an extreme deviation from the standard of care."

The prosecutor also said he would call a bodyguard who would testify that Murray ordered him to collect items from Jackson's bedroom.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/top/all/7366087.html

________________________________________________________

news about who will also testify

Michael Amir, Jackson's chief of staff; Alberto Alvarez, a security staffer; and Faheem Muhammad, chief of security, have been subpoenaed to testify for prosecutors seeking to prove they have enough evidence to try Murray for involuntary manslaughter, said the employees' lawyer, Carl Douglas.

Douglas, who declined to comment for the story, confirmed that he would appear with his clients following their court appearance Tuesday and make some brief comments.

Alvarez was with Jackson and Murray in the pop star's bedroom in the moments before paramedics arrived and could provide independent insight into what transpired, the attorney said. But he would not elaborate on those details at the time.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/01/trio-of-jackson-employees-expected-to-testify-at-hearing-for-michael-jacksons-doctor.html

__________________________________________________________

Prosecutor: Jackson Was Already Dead

Los Angeles County Prosecutor David Walgren began to lay out the case against Dr. Conrad Murray ... saying in his opening statement that Michael Jackson was dead even before paramedics got to MJ's home.

Walgren also told Judge Michael Pastor Murray tried to conceal the fact he had administered Propofol to Jackson.

Walgren said the evidence will show Murray ordered a bodyguard to help him clean up evidence and waited at least 20 minutes before he called 911.

He also pointed out Murray performed CPR incorrectly -- with one hand on his bed, rather than a hard surface.

Murray's attorney, Ed Chernoff, declined to make an opening statement.

The first witness the prosecution will call is "This Is It" producer/director Kenny Ortega.

Kenny Ortega Testifies

Kenny Ortega, MJ's producer/director for "This is It," was the first to testify, stating just days before MJ died, Dr. Murray was upset that Kenny sent MJ home from rehearsal on June 19. According to Ortega ... Murray felt only he should make such decisions.

According to Ortega ... Dr. Murray said during the June 20 meeting at MJ's home that Michael was "physically and emotionally fine," even though Ortega said MJ had the chills and was not well during the failed rehearsal the day before.

The June 20 meeting at MJ's home is important for prosecutors, who claim it shows Murray did not care about MJ's health.

And Ortega said June 23 and 24 were "two wonderful days of rehearsal" and that MJ was happy and healthy. The point -- that Jackson wasn't in distress the day before he died, and it was the Propofol that did him in.

During cross examination, Ortega denied he read Michael "the riot act" during the June 20 meeting.

___________________________________________________

Kenny just talked about This Is It in general but then talked about June 19th. Michael came to rehersals, had chills, was out if it and quiet. He said he shouldnt be here and didnt rehearse that night. Kenny didnt know why but was concerned. Defense asked him about Karen Faye and he said he never talked to her ever about Michael's condition. They said he did talk to her and he yelled at her and he says that isn't true, he never talked to her.

Michael Jackson hearing: Dr. Conrad Murray withheld information about powerful drug, prosecutor says
January 4, 2011 | 10:41 am
Michael Jackson’s personal physician caused the pop singer’s death by abandoning his patient, performing ineffective CPR, failing to call 911 in time, and hiding from paramedics and emergency room doctors that he had given Jackson a powerful anesthetic used in surgery, a prosecutor said Tuesday.

Deputy Dist. Atty. David Walgren made the comments in opening statements for the doctor’s preliminary hearing, which will determine whether there is enough evidence for Murray to stand trial.

Dr. Conrad Murray stands accused of involuntary manslaughter in connection with Jackson’s June 25, 2009 death.

Walgren outlined for Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor the time line of events that led up to Jackson’s death. He repeatedly emphasized that Jackson’s final rehearsal at Staples Center had been “energetic” and “fabulous.”

“Michael left the rehearsal very optimistic for the future,” he told the judge.

After the singer returned to his Holmby Hills estate, Walgren said Murray gave Jackson various medications, including benzodiazepines such as lorazepam or Valium, throughout the night.
Sometime between 10:40 and 11 the next morning, Murray gave the singer a dose of propofol, a dangerous anesthetic normally used in surgery. He then made a phone call around 11:51 a.m. and about 10 minutes into the call he appeared to first realize there was something wrong with his patient, the prosecutor said.

Yet rather than calling 911, Murray’s next move was to call Jackson’s security personnel, most of whom weren’t at Jackson’s home, Walgren said.

When a security guard, Alberto Alvarez, walked over from the security trailer parked next to the home, he saw Murray performing CPR with one hand on Jackson on a soft bed, according to the prosecutor. The doctor then instructed Alvarez to help him collect medical paraphernalia and stuff it into a bag, and only then told Alvarez to call 911, he said.

The prosecutor said the physician waited a minimum of nine minutes, and possibly as many as 21 minutes, before the 911 call was made. When paramedics arrived, Murray made no mention of the propofol Jackson was given, Walgren said.

Coroners ruled that Jackson died from acute propofol intoxication. Walgren said prosecutors would call as witnesses medical experts to testify about Murray’s conduct.

“The court will learn that in the opinion of these medical experts, there were a number of actions displayed by Dr. Murray that showed an extreme deviation from standard medical care,” Walgren said.

The producer of Jackson’s planned 2009 tour, Kenneth Ortega, was called as the first witness.

Ed Chernoff, Murray’s defense attorney, declined to make an opening statement. The hearing is expected to last seven to eight days.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/01/michael-jackson-hearing-dr-conrad-murray-withheld-information-about-powerful-drug-prosecutor-says.html

_________________________________________________

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Choreographer Kenny Ortega, the last person to work with Michael Jackson on his ill-fated concert tour, has told a Los Angeles judge that the superstar seemed unwell and not in condition six days before he died, and went home early from rehearsals at his suggestion.

The testimony Tuesday came in a preliminary hearing to determine if Jackson’s physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, stands trial on a charge of involuntary manslaughter for administering the powerful anesthetic propofol to the singer to help him sleep.

Ortega says that the morning after Jackson left rehearsal early he was summoned to Jackson’s home and was told by Murray to not try to be Jackson’s doctor or psychiatrist. He says Murray suggested Jackson should not have been sent home because he was physically and emotionally fine.

Murray has pleaded not guilty.

http://www.suntimes.com/entertainment/3152212-417/jackson-murray-hearing-manslaughter-michael.html

________________________________________________

Fox News Reporter Sally Arthy was in court today for the preliminary hearing of Michael Jackson’s Doctor Conrad Murray. Here are her notes from inside the courtroom.

There are no definite witnesses in court today
Judge goes through court proceedings regarding photographs etc/comings and goings/cell phones
There is a lottery for public seating each morning
Judge Walden opening statement 0910
7-8 Day hearing
20-30 witnesses
Show Michael Jackson preparing for important tour in U.K.
Major world event also important for MJ career
MJ crew rehearsal at Staples Centre in the evening
Defendant Murray working as personal psychologist, preventative treated
Murray treating MJ at home in Holmby Hills
Murray going late evening-midnight-1am at night and provide care..6 nights a week at MJ home giving Propofol to help MJ sleep for 2 straight months every night
No indication Propofol can be used for sleep aide
TIMELINE:
June 23rd 2009..MJ normal routine to Staples Centre..rehearsal fabulous
June 24 same routine good rehearsal at staples..MJ optimistic
Returns home at 1am June 25th
Murray’s BMW car in driveway according to security
MJ dropped off at home
June 25
1:30am Court learned through evidence that Murray began treatment
2:00am valium pill administered
3:00am Intravenous diazebeem, IV of benzso
5:00am other treatment
7:30am other drugs through IV
10:40-11am infusing with propofol..at some point he ceases to breathe and dies after that
MJ dead before paramedics arrived
Only 2 pepople in room at the time— MJ and Dr. Murray
11:51am call- lasted 11 mins..witness heard noises at other end of phone
Likely Conrad Murray who realized MJ was not breathing.
12:12pm Call by Murray to Michael Emeer Williams, security, saying he needs help..left a message.
12:15pm Williams returns call and Murray says MJ had a bad reaction.
Williams calls another member of security who is not at house.
12:17pm Williams then calls Alberto Alvarez who is in second trailer outside house, checks permission to go in house, goes upstairs to MJ’s bedroom.
He Sees MJ on bed, Murray doing one handed CPR on the soft bed.
Murray reports MJ had a bad reaction and asks Alvarez to collect medical evidence.
Prosecution says Murray has still not called 911 at this point.
12:21pm Alvarez told to get a bag and Murray collects medical bottles, and IV bag etc., as told and only then is he told to call 911.
Possible that Murray waited 20 minutes to call 911...MJ could have been dead before noon.
12:26pm Paramedics treating MJ on site. MJ’s Eyes fixed and dilated and he was cool to touch. He flatlined so heart action taking place. MJ dead...no observation of appropriate equipment for treatment with propofol, according to paramedics.
Asked Murray about underlying medical condition.
Murray asked what drugs he had given...doesn't mention propofol
Prosecutors says this could have been useful.
UCLA medical center advised futher care on MJ useless..they in contact with paramedics.
1:07pm Paramedics transport to UCLA with MJ
1:13pm Arrive in ER room.
Doctors at hospital only asked Murray what he treating MJ for. Mentioned on drug, valium and flomax..no mention of propofol to UCLA doctors.
Doctors still tried to bring MJ to life.
2:26pm Dr. Cooper at UCLA pronounced MJ dead.
Murray had conversation with security personnel at hospital.
Detectives question Murray next day and then learned of propofol.
Autopsy - acute propofol intoxication
Court will hear from medical experts...extreme deviation from expected standard of care...
Key points made by Prosecution:
-Lack of appropriate equipment
-Propofol doesn't help imsomnia
-Cocktail of drugs
-Ineffective CPR
-Failure to call 911 immediately
-Failure to maintain appropriate medical records

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE
INTERESTED IN
BofA Scrambling Amid WikiLeaks Threat, Report Says
Expedia Dumps American Airlines Listings
NY Sanitation Bosses Targeted 'Political' Areas
Undercover Cruise-Line Boss Earns Angel Wings, the Hard Way
Issa to Holder: 'Stop Hurting the Administration or Leave'
End of opening statement from prosecution
No opening statement from defense.
Kenny Ortega called to stand.
Kenneth Ortega states name.
Told to speak in loud voice
Walden starts questions:
Job?
Director and Choreographer in theatrical production
How long?
Chore since 1970’s and director since 1980’s
First meet MJ?
1991
MJ interested in creative partnership and directing tour dangerous world tour which Ortega did.
1991-2009 relationship?
Most of time when rehearsing production..MJ looking to do something at right time when appropriate..most time spent working together.
This is it tour...did u discuss w MJ?
Talks started April 2009...MJ and me co-directed productions.
April interaction from then on with MJ?
3-4 days a week before prod then 4-5 days when rehearsing per week
MJ demeanor?
Called and invited..great about this ...like u to work with me...excited about it...tremendous potential to be creative..MJ shared reasons for wanting to do it.
Reason?
Good time to perform again, his kids appreciate it, for his fans, remind people to take care of planet and each other.
Plans beyond tour
MJ asked about going to India....wanted Ortega to go..MJ asked if Ortega had visited Japan...taking show to these places.
Professionally...MJ post tour?
After tour MJ wanted to help direct with Ortega on motion pictures. MJ liked film making and wanted to dev movie ideas.
Rehearsals prior to June 25...were u at rehearsals at Burbank at start before moved to staples?
Yes...at beginging of May and April.
Transitioned to forum in L.A. in June...then to staples..large scale rehearsals.
Yes
U on staples every day?
Yes
When start staples?
At some point in June moved to staples
Demeanour of MJ at staples...excited?
Yes
General schedual at staples?
Diff call times for crew, dancers, MJ etc
What mj sched?
Late pm
Evening?
Yes
Length?
6 hours max...4 days a week
MJ involved in every creative decision.
Friday June 19 2009...incident at rehearsal...what?
Ortega: at staples..MJ arrived he didn't appear well at all. MJ chilled soft spoken seemed not well...
Did u have concerns?
Absolutely
He wasn't in condition to be at rehearsal..he didn't seem well enough to be there...he didn't rehearse and didn’t want to go home..asked for choreography to do his part and watch from arena..this happened for a while. He just appeared very lost it was scary..it felt scary..said MJ
Asked--would you rather go home..he said would u be ok with that..Ortega said absolutely.
Previously like this?
Meeting next day at MJ home on June 20th.
Did u know what meeting about? No
Who there?
MJ there. Murray there (Ortega asked to i.d. Murray in court)...Frank Deleo MJ manager and Randy Phillips.
What next?
Quickly clear meeting about me that Murray upset I had sent MJ home and not allow to rehearse and voiced my concerns about MJ health..Murray said not my responsibility..to leave MJ’s health to him
Murray scolding towards me...
Response?
Tried to explain..choice made together...MJ in danger and others if went on stage..it was MJ’s choice and I supported it.
Better for all if I focus on show
MJ physically and emotionally fine according to Murray.
Tues June 23 rehearsals resumed. How was this?
Fantastic, MJ in great form..MJ we all knew...
Weds june 24?
Involved active participation in rehearsal...
Discussion at end w MJ...?
2 wonderful days of rehearsing...was feeling good and confident..MJ asked if happy? He said was happy..MJ said he was happy..asked to thank crew for all hard work and talked regarding next days rehearsal..
Practicing illusion..
Said goodnight
Thurs june 25
Learned news of MJ
Had phone call to Staples....
I was on way to rehearsal and Randy going to pick up MJ for rehearsal..Randy said calling for different reason and I am at house for different reason there is ambulance outside
Prosecution finished:
Chernoff cross examine Ortega:
Tour would enhance your reputation?
If dancers etc
If u created show was poor
Would that affect reputation?
It could
Meeting at house..who called meeting?
I don't know.
Why manager there?
Who is Randy Phillips...high up in AEG?
On 19th observed MJ to be chilled. First time MJ came to rehearsal and looked sick?
First time came and looked like he couldn’t perform?
Yes
For most part we were headed to greatness...but MJ sometimes didn't show up..created anxiety for me...difficult to move forward...if not there
Why not present?
Don't know
19 June: anything else observed?
Ortega: seemed to be in state that he wasn’t present...I was troubled by his appearance.

http://liveshots.blogs.foxnews.com/2011/01/04/courtroom-notes-inside-the-preliminary-hearing-of-dr-conrad-murray/

Preliminary hearing begins for Michael Jackson's physician
By Alan Duke, CNN
January 4, 2011 2:59 p.m. EST

STORY HIGHLIGHTS
Prosecutors begin calling witnesses
The defense declines to make an opening statement
A concert director testifies about the singer's energy
Los Angeles, California (CNN) -- Dr. Conrad Murray waited at least 21 minutes after he found pop star Michael Jackson unresponsive before calling for an ambulance, a prosecutor said at the start of Murray's preliminary hearing Tuesday.
"By all accounts, Michael Jackson was dead in the bedroom at 100 North Carolwood prior to the paramedics' arrival," said Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney David Walgren.
Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine, sister La Toya, and brothers Randy and Jackie sat on the second row of the courtroom during Tuesday's opening session.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor will hear testimony over the next two weeks as he decides whether there is probable cause to try Murray on an involuntary manslaughter charge in the pop star's June 25, 2009, death.
The coroner concluded Jackson died from "acute propofol intoxication," in combination with "the contributory effects of the benzodiazepines," Walgren said.
Dr. Conrad Murray faces court hearing A look back at MJ's death as trial nears
RELATED TOPICS
Conrad Murray
Michael Jackson
Criminal Trials
Propofol is a powerful anesthetic used to "put people under for surgery," and the benzodiazepines were sedatives Murray later acknowledged giving Jackson in the morning before his death, he said.
"Michael Jackson was preparing for one of the most important tours of his life" in the months before his death, Walgren said.
Murray's defense team has hinted it would argue that Jackson was under pressure from the concert promoter, which led him to demand treatments to help him sleep.
Defense attorney Ed Chernoff declined to make an opening statement Tuesday.
Kenny Ortega, who directed Jackson's comeback "This Is It" concerts, was the first of about 30 witnesses to be called by the prosecution.
Ortega described Jackson as "involved, active, participating" at his last rehearsal, which ended just 12 or 14 hours before the singer died.
"He was in a delightful mood and we had an absolutely fantastic day," Ortega testified.
But Ortega described a different, "scary" Michael Jackson at the Staples Center rehearsal on June 19, six nights before his death.
"I just felt that he appeared, you know, really lost," Ortega said. "It was scary. I didn't know what was wrong. I couldn't put my finger on it."
Ortega suggested to Jackson that he cut his rehearsal short and go home to rest.
He was called to a meeting at Jackson's home the next day, where he was "scolded" by Murray for having sent Jackson home the night before, Ortega said.
"Dr. Murray told me that this was not my responsibility and he asked me not to act like a doctor or psychologist," he said.
Ortega said it was an emotional meeting, but he denied yelling at Jackson. "It wasn't yelling," he said. "It was about caring."
"Michael said 'I know you love me and I know you care about me, but you don't have to worry. I'm fine.'" Ortega said. "It was Michael's voice that calmed me."
Randy Phillips, the CEO of concert promoter AEG Live, and Jackson manager Frank Dileo were at this meeting, along with Murray and Jackson, Ortega said.
A civil lawsuit filed last year by Michael Jackson's mother against AEG Live alleged that Phillips visited Jackson's home on June 18, 2009, to warn "that if Jackson missed any further rehearsals, they were going to 'pull the plug' on the show."
"AEG told Murray that he had to make sure Jackson got to rehearsals," Katherine Jackson's lawsuit charged.
Murray remains free on $75,000 bond.

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/CRIME/01/04/california.conrad.murray.hearing/?hpt=Sbin

__________________________________________________

Testimony of Michael Amir Williams

Michael Jackson's personal assistant is testifying in Los Angeles about a chaotic scene at the singer's rented mansion and a hospital on the day that he died.
Prosecutors questioned Michael Amir Williams on Tuesday about a brief conversation he had with Dr. Conrad Murray, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter in Jackson's death.
Williams describes Murray calling him and frantically asking him to get help from bodyguards for the singer, who was in a bedroom. Prosecutors contended earlier in Murray's preliminary hearing that Jackson was already dead.
Williams says Murray told him the singer had a "bad reaction" and that immediate help was needed, but that the doctor didn't ask him to call 911.
Williams says it was "chaos" at the mansion and the hospital, with crowds gathering.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/top/all/7366087.html

__________________________________________________

Michael Jackson's Assistant Testifies

The prosecution began to paint a picture of Dr. Conrad Murray's reckless actions on the night MJ passed away ... by calling to the stand the Jackson assistant Murray telephoned before he called 911.

Michael Amir Williams testified that he received a frantic voicemail from Murray at 12:13 PM on June 25, 2009. Williams said Murray's VM said, "Where are you? Get here right away, hurry."

Williams says he then called Alberto Alvarez, MJ's security guard, and asked Alvarez to walk to the front door. Williams says he heard Murray's voice in the background, then Alvarez hung up.

Williams said that later on at the hospital, Murray approached him and said Michael had some cream in his room that Murray knew MJ wouldn't want the world to know about. Williams said he wanted someone to give him a ride back to MJ's house to retrieve it.

__________________________________________________

rom TMZ

Murray's baby mama, Nicole Alvarez, was in court today -- but ordered to return on Friday. Murray was on the phone with Alvarez when he realized MJ was in trouble.

_________________________________________________

More info about Michael Amir's testimony

Michael Jackson’s personal assistant, Michael Amir Williams, is the second person to take the stand in the preliminary hearing of Dr. Conrad Murray, Jackson’s personal physician.

Williams testified, on the night Jackson died he got an urgent call from Murray saying ” Jackson had a bad reaction, a bad reaction, get here right away.” But he said, Murray did not ask him to call 911

Williams said he arrived at the house when the ambulance was already there and helped put the children in a car to follow the ambulance. He said the scene at the hospital was chaotic and he was in the room when the Jackson kids were told their father had died. Williams said Dr. Murray then approached him and said” Mr. Jackson has some cream in his room that I know he wouldn’t want the world to know about it, can you drive me back to the house to get it? Williams told Murray he didn’t have a key to the house when in fact he did. He says he called the house and ordered that it be put on lock down and not to let anyone in.

http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/01/michael-jacksons-personal-assistant-stand

_________________________________________________

More info about Kenny Ortega's and Michael Amir's testimony

The first witnesses to testify in Tuesday’s preliminary hearing for Michael Jackson's physician described a run-in with Dr. Conrad Murray six days before the pop star's death on June 25, 2009.

Renowned choreographer Kenny Ortega was the first to take the stand and said the singer showed up at a rehearsal at Staples Center seeming “lost” and too weak to perform.

“It was scary. I didn’t know what was wrong, but I knew there was something going on,” Ortega recalled.

The next day, he said, he was summoned to a meeting at Jackson’s mansion with the singer, his manager, the concert promoter and Murray.

He said the doctor insisted Jackson was emotionally and physically strong enough to perform and scolded Ortega for sending Jackson home -- something he said he hadn’t done.

“Dr. Murray told me that this was not my responsibility and asked me to not act like a doctor or psychologist ... and leave Michael’s health to him,” he said.

Ortega said that earlier in June, there was a week during which Jackson was “sort of missing” from rehearsals without explanation, a situation he said “created anxiety for me.”

But in two rehearsals preceding Jackson’s death, the singer appeared to have turned a corner.

“It was like the Michael we all knew and loved,” he said.

The judge also heard from Jackson’s personal assistant, the first person Murray called after discovering Jackson had stopped breathing.

Michael Amir Williams said Murray left a “frantic” message saying Jackson “had a bad reaction” and urging him to come to the house. At the hospital, Murray went with Williams and Jackson’s manager to inform the singer’s children their father was dead.

His voice faltered as he recalled how the children, still thinking their father was alive, began listing his allergies for the doctors.

“It was horrible,” he said.

Shortly thereafter, Murray took him aside with a strange request, Williams said in his testimony.

“He said, ‘Brother Michael, Mr. Jackson has some cream in the house that I knew he wouldn’t want the world to know about,’” Williams said. “It was an odd question, to ask to go to the house to get the cream.”

The doctor asked for a ride back to the mansion, but Williams said he and other security guards demurred.

Subsequently, Murray said he was going to get something to eat and left the hospital. In his cross-examination, Murray’s attorney, Ed Chernoff, questioned Williams about his connection to the Nation of Islam and about other phone calls he made in the minutes after Murray’s call.

He also asked the personal assistant how frequently he went upstairs to Jackson’s bedroom, and whether his fingerprints may be found on vials, intravenous bags or syringes.

“I don’t know how that’s possible, I never touched any of that,” Williams said.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/01/choreographer-kenny-ortega-michael-jackson-too-weak-to-perform-just-before-death-.html

_________________________________________________

One of Michael Jackson's bodyguards says the pop star's two eldest children watched as the doctor charged in the singer's death frantically attempted to revive him in the bedroom of his rented mansion.

Faheem Muhammad testified Tuesday in Los Angeles that Dr. Conrad Murray appeared panicked as he performed chest compressions on the singer on a bed. Muhammad says the doctor asked at one point whether anyone knew CPR.

The guard says he saw Jackson's children Prince and Paris watching their father, who he described laying on the bed with his eyes and mouth wide open. Muhammad says Paris was crying on the floor and he eventually escorted them from the room.

The testimony comes in a preliminary hearing to determine if Murray must stand trial on a charge of involuntary manslaughter for injecting Jackson with an anesthetic to help him sleep. Murray has pleaded not guilty.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/top/all/7366087.html

________________________________________________

TMZ update

Faheen Muhammad, one of Michael Jackson's bodyguards, just testified he was in Michael's room after Murray noticed MJ stopped breathing. Faheen told the prosecutor, Murray was on his knees doing compressions on MJ in a panicked state, when he turned to Faheen and another bodyguard and asked, "Does anyone in the room know CPR?"

Faheen recalled how Prince and Paris were near the room and Paris was on her hands and knees crying. The nanny took them away.

Faheen also said after Michael was pronounced dead at UCLA, Dr. Murray told him he was hungry and wanted to leave. Faheen said he told Murray to eat at the hospital, but Murray left.

On cross-examination, Ed Chernoff got Faheen to admit Murray spoke with MJ's family and police before leaving.

_______________________________________________

Security guard describes frantic efforts to revive dying pop star


After the lunch hour, a security guard for Michael Jackson took the stand and described the frantic final moments when he saw Jackson’s physician kneeling over the singer, who was sprawled next to his bed.

Jackson was lying with his eyes and mouth open, appearing not to be alive, testified Faheem Muhammad. “I recall him being in a sort of panic state, and I recall him shortly after asking if anyone in the room knew CPR,” Muhammad testified of Dr. Conrad Murray.

Muhammad said he and another security guard exchanged looks of surprise.

“I knew Dr. Murray was a heart surgeon, so I looked at Alberto [Alvarez] kind of shocked,” he said. Alvarez eventually began helping Murray administer CPR, Muhammad testified. He said he left the room to whisk two of Jackson’s children, Paris and Prince, away from the foyer at the front of the room to keep them from the commotion.

Muhammad testified that less than an hour after the singer had been declared dead, the doctor approached him, saying he was hungry and wanted to get something to eat, and abruptly left the hospital soon afterward.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/01/michael-jackson-hearing-security-guard-describes-frantic-efforts-to-revive-dying-pop-star.html

inside courtroom updates

I didn't know that nobody was allowed upstairs besides Michael, the children and Murray... Mohammed was allowed up this time, saw Michael on the bed and he said he knew he was DEAD right there he had his eyes open he was totally gone, Murray very panicedly said did he know CPR... While they were saying this they showed pictures of the room Michael died in, I didn't see them but a lot of the fans who could were crying... Mohammed then realised that Prince was in the door way and he couldn't move, Paris was on the landing outside crying and so he took them down to the nanny, and the nanny put them in the car to follow the ambulance.

We all thanked Mohammed so many times when he came out of the courthouse for being so kind to Michael and the children...

The judge said he wanted to continue but he has a tight schedule so it starts all over again tomorrow morning at 9:30am... And could last for up to two weeks

----

Oh and something no one is talking about - Murray had a REALLY bad day today. His lawyers kept asking these stupid questions and the prosecution kept objecting and getting sustained.. and then they would ask again in a different way all the time about being allowed up to Michael's bedroom and would they find their fingerprints up there and all... It was stupid they were trying to make a case from nothing, today was absolutely a win for the prosecution!

And I heard this from a girl who got in the actual courtroom, Katherine was getting really angry when they were talking about Murray calling people the whole time and people kept leaning over to her and rubbing her back :'(

---

I dont know what media reported but all that happened was the defense laywer said to Kenny did he ever talk to Michael about his condition and he said no. He said did he talk to Michael's friends about it and he said no. He said he heard he had yelled at Michael long time friend and colleague Karen Faye about it and Kenny said he didn't. This was weird in general because Kenny had been giving such big answers before and he just said no to all these...

________________________________________

Dr. Conrad Murray seemed not to know how to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation as he waited for paramedics to arrive at Michael Jackson's house, a witness at Murray's preliminary hearing testified Tuesday.

Former Jackson security chief Faheem Muhammed said he and and guard Alberto Alvarez saw Murray crouched next to Jackson's bed "in a panicked state asking, 'Does anyone know CPR?'"

"I looked at Alberto because we knew Dr. Murray was a heart surgeon, so we were shocked," Muhammed said.

When defense lawyer Ed Chernoff asked if perhaps Murray was only asking for help because he was tired, Muhammed said "The way that he asked it is as if he didn't know CPR."

Jackson appeared to be dead at that time, with his "eyes open and his mouth open, just laying there," he said.

Prosecutor David Walgren earlier said that Murray used "ineffectual CPR with one hand while the patient was prone on a soft bed." Two hands with the patient prone on a hard surface is the proper method, he said.

Muhammed, the third witness on the opening day of the hearing, said he never saw Murray performing CPR on Jackson before paramedics arrived and carried him to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

Jackson's mother, Katherine, sister La Toya, and brothers Randy and Jackie sat in the second row of the courtroom during Tuesday's opening session.

Jackson's two oldest children, Prince and Paris, were at their father's bedroom door as the drama unfolded just after noon on June 25, 2009, Muhammed said.

"Paris was on the floor on her hands and knees and she was just crying," he said.

The children would learn two hours later that their father had died when Dr. Murray and Jackson manager Frank Dileo talked to them in a hospital room.

"Frank blurted out and said "Your daddy had a heart attack and died," Jackson personal assistant Michael Williams testified.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor will decide whether there is "probable cause" to try Murray on an involuntary manslaughter in the pop star's death. The hearing is expected to last two or three weeks, with 20 to 30 witnesses testifying.

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/CRIME/01/04/california.conrad.murray.hearing/?hpt=Sbin

__________________________________________

Michael Jackson's doctor frantically tried to cover up singer's treatment

In the first day of a hearing to determine if cardiologist Conrad Murray should be tried for involuntary manslaughter, prosecutors say he delayed calling 911, seemed not to know CPR and misled paramedics and doctors.

As Michael Jackson's life slipped away, his personal physician delayed calling 911, hid evidence of his medical treatment, misled paramedics and doctors, and then abuptly left the hospital before police could question him, prosecutors and the pop star's employees said in court Tuesday.

The picture of Dr. Conrad Murray frantically trying to cover up his treatment of the pop star emerged during the first day of a hearing in Los Angeles County Superior Court to determine whether prosecutors have enough evidence to try the 57-year-old cardiologist for involuntary manslaughter.

Two members of Jackson's staff summoned to the witness stand by prosecutors described the physician as panicked, drenched in sweat and, according to one security guard, too flustered to recall even the most basic medical skills.

"I remember him asking if anyone in the room knew CPR," testified Jackson's head of security, Faheem Muhammad. He said he and another guard stared at each other in shock.

Jackson stopped breathing June 25, 2009, in a bedroom of his rented Holmby Hills mansion from what the coroner determined was a fatal combination of the surgical anesthetic propofol and several sedatives.

Murray initially did not return police calls, but two days after Jackson's death he met with police and acknowledged that he had given the 50-year-old singer the drugs as a sleep aid on a daily basis for two months, including the day he died, prosecutors said.

Tuesday's testimony focused on the minutes and hours when the cause of Jackson's death remained a mystery.

Deputy Dist. Atty. David Walgren said phone records and witness interviews indicated that Murray was on his cellphone when he discovered that his famous client was not breathing.

Walgren said that based on phone records, at least nine minutes and as many 21 minutes elapsed between the time Murray realized something was wrong and he asked someone to call 911.

Before summoning paramedics, Murray left a frantic message on the cellphone of Jackson's personal assistant, Michael Amir Williams. When he returned the call, Williams testified, the physician told him that Jackson "had a bad reaction" and that he should "get someone" to the house immediately.

Walgren said that during this period Murray ordered another security guard, Alberto Alvarez, to help him collect pill bottles and medical paraphernalia in a bag.

Alvarez saw the doctor performing CPR with one hand on a bed, the prosecutor said.

Muhammad, sent to Jackson's bedroom by Williams, testified that he saw Murray kneeling over the singer, who was by this time sprawled out on the floor next to the bed with his eyes and mouth open.

"Did he appear to be alive?" Walgren asked.

"No, sir, he didn't," Muhammad said.

He said Murray then asked whether he or Alvarez knew CPR.

"It was very frantic," Muhammad said of the question.

Adding to the chaos, the witness said, was the presence of two of Jackson's children near the entrance to the bedroom.

The singer's daughter, Paris, was on "the ground on her hands and knees and she was crying," Muhammad recalled.

Walgren told the judge that when paramedics arrived and asked about Jackson's "underlying medical condition," Murray did not mention propofol, instead telling them that the performer was "exhausted from rehearsals."

At Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, emergency room doctors questioned Murray, but again he failed to mention the anesthetic he had administered, the prosecutor alleged.

"Not a word was said about propofol to the UCLA doctors," Walgren said.

Williams' voice faltered as he recalled how Jackson's children, still thinking their father was alive, began listing his allergies for the doctors.

"It was horrible," he said.

Shortly thereafter, the children were told their father was dead, and Murray took Williams aside with a strange request.

"He said, 'Brother Michael, Mr. Jackson has some cream in the house that I know he wouldn't want the world to know about,' " Williams said.

The doctor asked for a ride back to the mansion, but Williams said he and other security guards demurred. Subsequently, Murray said he was going to get something to eat and left the hospital, Williams testified.

Renowned choreographer Kenny Ortega also testified at the hearing. He recounted working as the co-creator and co-director of Jackson's planned comeback concerts.

Six days before Jackson's death, the singer showed up for a rehearsal at Staples Center seeming "lost" and too weak to perform.

"It was scary. I didn't know what was wrong, but I knew there was something going on," Ortega recalled.

The next day, he said, he was summoned to a meeting at Jackson's mansion with the singer, his manager, the concert promoter and Murray. He said the doctor insisted that Jackson was emotionally and physically strong enough to perform and scolded Ortega for sending Jackson home — something he said he hadn't done.

"Dr. Murray told me that this was not my responsibility and asked me to not act like a doctor or psychologist … and leave Michael's health to him," he said.

Murray, who could face up to four years in prison if convicted, has pleaded not guilty. His attorney, Ed Chernoff, declined to make an opening statement. Prosecutors plan to call as many as 30 witnesses for the hearing, which is expected to last seven to eight days.

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-conrad-murray-20110105,0,1032634,full.story

______________________________________________

Summary of 1st day of Murray prelim -

January 4 , 2011 Preliminary Hearing Day 1

- Katherine, Latoya and Jackie Jackson attends the hearing.

- After opening statement from the DA, Kenny Ortega, Michael Amir Williams and Faheen Muhammad testifies.

- Below are the summary of their testimonies as reported by the media

Prosecutor David Walgren opening statement

- Walgren on his opening statement mentions that MJ was already dead by time Murray called for help, Murray hid the fact that he have propofol to MJ, Murray didn't do proper CPR (performing CPR on Jackson with one hand on his bed, rather than a hard surface as is generally required.)and that he asked a bodyguard (Alberto Alverez) to hid evidence.

- "The evidence will show through the expert testimony, by all accounts, Michael Jackson was dead in the bedroom at 100 North Carrolwood prior to the paramedics arriving," Walgren said.

- Walgren said evidence will show Murray waited at least 21 minutes to call 911 and ordered a bodyguard to help him clean up evidence before summoning help. In the most favorable interpretation, Walgren said, Murray waited at least nine minutes before calling paramedics.

The following is the timeline of events as presented by Walgren

- 1:30am Court learned through evidence that Murray began treatment
- 2:00am valium pill administered
- 3:00am Intravenous diazebeem, IV of benzso
- 5:00am other treatment
- 7:30am other drugs through IV
- 10:40-11am infusing with propofol..at some point he ceases to breathe and dies after that
- MJ dead before paramedics arrived
- Only 2 pepople in room at the time— MJ and Dr. Murray
- 11:51am call- lasted 11 mins..witness heard noises at other end of phone. Likely Conrad Murray who realized MJ was not breathing.
- 12:12pm Call by Murray to Michael Amir Williams, security, saying he needs help..left a message.
- 12:15pm Williams returns call and Murray says MJ had a bad reaction. Williams calls another member of security who is not at house.
- 12:17pm Williams then calls Alberto Alvarez who is in second trailer outside house, checks permission to go in house, goes upstairs to MJ’s bedroom.
- He Sees MJ on bed, Murray doing one handed CPR on the soft bed.
- Murray reports MJ had a bad reaction and asks Alvarez to collect medical evidence.
- Prosecution says Murray has still not called 911 at this point.
- 12:21pm Alvarez told to get a bag and Murray collects medical bottles, and IV bag etc., as told and only then is he told to call 911.
- Possible that Murray waited 20 minutes to call 911...MJ could have been dead before noon.
- 12:26pm Paramedics treating MJ on site. MJ’s Eyes fixed and dilated and he was cool to touch. He flatlined so heart action taking place. MJ dead...no observation of appropriate equipment for treatment with propofol, according to paramedics.
- Asked Murray about underlying medical condition. Asked Murray what drugs he had given...doesn't mention propofol
- Prosecutors says this could have been useful.
- UCLA medical center advised futher care on MJ useless..they in contact with paramedics.
- 1:07pm Paramedics transport to UCLA with MJ
- 1:13pm Arrive in ER room.
- Doctors at hospital only asked Murray what he treating MJ for. Mentioned on drug, valium and flomax..no mention of propofol to UCLA doctors.
- Doctors still tried to bring MJ to life.
- 2:26pm Dr. Cooper at UCLA pronounced MJ dead.
- Murray had conversation with security personnel at hospital.
- Detectives question Murray next day and then learned of propofol.

Murray's attorney, Ed Chernoff, declined to give an opening statement.

Kenny Ortega testimony

- Ortega mentions that on June 19th Micheal didn't seem well.

- "He didn't look well at all," Ortega testified. "Michael was chilled and soft-spoken. ... He wasn't in the kind of condition to be at rehearsal." Ortega also said Jackson appeared lost.

- "It was scary. I couldn't put my finger on it," Ortega said. "I said, 'Michael, is this the best place for you to be or do you want to go home and be with your family?' He said, 'Would you be OK with that?' I said, 'OK,' and he left."

- Ortega say on June 20th he's called to a meeting at MJ's house. He says MJ, Murray, Frank Dileo and Randy Phillips was present at this meeting.

- Ortega says ""It quickly became clear that the meeting was about me, Dr. Murray was upset that I had sent Michael home the night before and didn't allow him to rehearse."

- Ortega says Dr. Murray scolded him and said "Dr. Murray told me that this was not my responsibility and he asked me not to act like a doctor or psychologist ... and leave Michael’s health to him" . Ortega also mentions Murray suggested Jackson should not have been sent home because he was physically and emotionally fine.

- Ortega recalls what MJ told him by saying "I know you love me and care about me. You don't have to worry about me. I'm fine,' and he gave me a big hug,".

- When cross examined by defense lawyers Ortega says he never seen anyone going through drug withdrawals, denies discussing MJ's health with Karen Faye. He also denies "riot act" and yelling to Michael saying "it was an emotional meeting but there was no yelling"

Michael Amir Williams testimony

- Michael Amir tells that he received a frantic call from Murray saying MJ had a "bad reaction" and that immediate help was needed, but that the doctor didn't ask him to call 911. Murray also tells Williams to get the house right away.

- Williams says he then called Alberto Alvarez, MJ's security guard, and asked Alvarez to walk to the front door. Williams says he heard Murray's voice in the background, then Alvarez hung up.

- Williams said he arrived at the house when the ambulance was already there and helped put the children in a car to follow the ambulance.

- Williams said Dr. Murray then approached him and said ”Brother Michael, Mr. Jackson has some cream in the house that I knew he wouldn’t want the world to know about". He added "It was an odd question, to ask to go to the house to get the cream.”

- Williams testified that he told Murray he didn’t have a key to the house when in fact he did. He says he called the house and ordered that it be put on lock down and not to let anyone in.

- Williams said that Frank Dileo, Murray and him went to tell MJ's kids that their father was dead.

- His voice faltered as he recalled how the children, still thinking their father was alive, began listing his allergies for the doctors. “It was horrible,” he said.

- Williams said Murray said he was going to get something to eat and left the hospital.

- In cross examination by Murray's lawyers Williams connection to the Nation of Islam,other phone calls he made in the minutes after Murray’s call is questioned. He also asked the personal assistant how frequently he went upstairs to Jackson’s bedroom, and whether his fingerprints may be found on vials, intravenous bags or syringes. Williams denied this saying "I never touched any of that".


Faheem Muhammad testimony

- Faheem testifies to be in the room when Murray was administrating CPR.

- Jackson was lying with his eyes and mouth open, appearing not to be alive, testified Faheem Muhammad. “I recall him being in a sort of panic state, and I recall him shortly after asking if anyone in the room knew CPR,” Muhammad testified.

- Muhammad said " I knew Dr. Murray was a heart surgeon, so I looked at Alberto [Alvarez] kind of shocked,” he said. Alvarez eventually began helping Murray administer CPR, Muhammad testified.

- Muhammad also testified MJ's kids Prince and Paris being inside the room/ just outside the door and Paris crying on her hands and knees. He says the left the room to whisk two of Jackson’s children, Paris and Prince, away from the foyer at the front of the room to keep them from the commotion.

- Muhammad also testified that less than an hour after the singer had been declared dead, the doctor approached him, saying he was hungry and wanted to get something to eat, and abruptly left the hospital soon afterward.

- In cross examination Muhammad said Murray spoke with MJ's family and police before leaving.

TMZ reported that Murray's baby mama Nicole Alvarez was present in court and asked to come back later on Friday.
__________________

A detailed event summary from http://sprocket-trials.blogspot.com/

Currently it only has the opening statement

Dr. Conrad Murray Prelim: Day 1, Part 1
Prosecution Witnesses
1 Kenneth Ortega (Co-director, Co-creator, THIS IS IT tour)
2 Michael Amir Williams (Personal Assistant to Michael Jackson)
3 Faheem Mohamed (Head of Jackson’s security)

8:30 am
I’m inside the courtroom. I’ve got an ideal seat in one of the cushy padded rolling chairs with arms right in front of the video screen. Steven Mikulan and Public Information Officer (PIO) Pat Kelly are talking about the fans. One fan has an armband that says “Sony Kills.” As much as I’d like to be in the actual courtroom, this isn’t bad. I will miss seeing which Jackson family members attend the prelim and will have to read the MSM to find out.

There is a full page sheet of instructions to the media about what is and isn’t allowed inside the courtroom or overflow room. You can leave, but you can’t reenter until there is a break in the proceedings. (Later, these rules in the overflow room are not strictly enforced. In the afternoon, some reporters enter the overflow room very quietly after the prelim had started up again.)

ASHLEY BANFIELD! That’s the name of the on-air correspondent I couldn’t remember! She just entered the overflow room.

Pat Kelly tells us the cameras are voice activated. So whomever speaks, the camera will go in that direction. She said they tried it out last night. At the moment, there are few reporters here...not even a dozen.

Several of the reporters are quite surprised at the rules for covering the prelim. From my point of view, it’s being treated just like an extension of Pastor’s courtroom. Pat Kelly states “there is no transmission from this room, ever.” One reporter asks, “How about downloading?” Pat replies, “If you want to transmit, you must go out to the hallway.” The rules apply to download also. I’ll post them later tonight.

It’s two minutes now until the Judge takes the bench. Some reporters jokingly ask if there will be a ball drop. I really like Pat Kelly. She is professional but at the same time she is not afraid to inject a bit of levity into the event.

Earlier in the lobby, Beth Karas introduced me to two people this morning and they just enter the overflow room...but I’ve forgotten their names already. My memory is failing me. Steven tells me he has the same problem and has just forgotten what I’ve told him.

I take a peek over at Steven’s notes. He’s writing about the fans who were on Temple Street. He was there and tells me it was a big scene. I missed it because I came in through the back of the building. You can read Steven’s report in THE WRAP.com.

Judge Pastor’s courtroom appears on screen! I see the back of my favorite court reporter, Mavis. I’m pretty sure it’s her. I met her during the Cameron Brown retrial. She’s a gem.

The view of the courtroom is from the jury box. It’s a still camera. It’s not being operated by someone to zoom in on someone who is speaking. You can see the Judge, the witness and the prosecutors. It’s more difficult to see the defense table and the defendant. Currently, we have zero audio. So we are missing the beginnings of the prelim.

Steven says he can’t see the defendant at the defense table. He is too far away. Then the sound finally comes on Judge Pastor is speaking. He is verifying that there are no defense witnesses present.

The overflow courtroom is Dept 110 this week and Dept 109 next week.

Pastor talks about the rules for the courtroom.

No gum chewing. No food or drink. No cell phones. Electronic devices in the courtroom for note taking only. No cell phone sending or receiving. Audience members must follow courtroom procedure at all time. Violations may include contempt of court proceedings against the violator.

Deputy Dist. Atty. David Walgren is the co-prosecutor along with Deborah Brazil. Ms. Brazil and Alan Jackson did the prelim hearing last January in the Lily Burk case.

David Walgren presents the opening statement. I’m surprised there is an opening statement. From my recollection, Jackson and Brazil did not present one in the Burk prelim.

DW: The people will be calling a number of witness, 20 to 30 witnesses who will testify to the relevant facts surround Michael Jackson’s death.

Walgren gives the background at to what was taking place weeks before Jackson’s death.

DW: The evidence will show Michael Jackson was preparing for the important tour of his life. THIS IS IT. It was to begin in London, in August, 2009. Jackson was preparing for it. It was to be a major world event. Rehearsals began in Burbank. Later, they were transferred over to The Forum. Next, the rehearsals were taking place at The Staples Center in downtown.

The people and Michael would rehearse in the afternoon and evenings. When rehearsals were over, Jackson would return to his (rented) home in Holmby Hills, 100 Carolwood Dr.

Dr. Murray was not working under a contract with Michael Jackson, but in the months before he was working as Michael Jackson's doctor. He had previously treated Jackson’s children.

DW: Dr. Murray was treating Michael Jackson at his home, 100 North Carolwood. He would go to Jackson’s house in the evening. He would stay overnight at the location and provide care to Michael Jackson. According to Conrad Murray himself, these visits were six nights a week. for two straight months. He was giving Michael Jackson Propofol to assist him in going asleep. This was going on every singe night for two months

DW: It’s a powerful anesthetic used for surgery. There is no indication for it to be used for insomnia. It’s specifically used for surgery.

On Tuesday, (June 23rd, 2009) Jackson followed his normal routine to the Staple Center for rehearsals. The rehearsals went fabulous and Michael Jackson was optimistic. Everyone was impressed with the energy and optimisn that Michael Jackson portrayed.

The following day, (June 24th, 2009) Jackson followed his same routine and arrived at The Staples Center and begins his rehearsal. By all accounts it was a fabulous, energetic, rehearsal and Michael Jackson left optimistic for the future.

DW: On June 24th, he returns home around 1 am, Actually, it’s June 25th. Dr. Murray’s car was parked in the driveway. Security dropped Michael off and the security detail departed for the evening.


A reporter is being kicked out of the overflow room.

DW: Documents will show the emails placed by Dr. Murray and the telephone calls that were given Dr. Murray began his treatment by giving Michael a Valium pill. that was followed by and IV at 2 am with midazolam ( a benzodiazepine). At 3 am, that was followed by another sedative given through the IV. At 5 am, another treatment of diazepam. According to Dr. Murray between 1 and 10 am in the morning he slowly infused Michale with Propofol.

DW: At some point Michael Jackson ceases to breathe and dies. The evidence will show through the paramedics, that by all accounts Jackson was dead in the bedroom at 100 N Carolwood prior to the paramedics arriving at the location.

Piecing together what happened, there were only two people in that room.

DW: The People will present various emails and telephone calls by Dr. Murray.

At 11:50 am, a phone call Dr. Murray made to an assistant lasted 11 minutes. At some point the phone conversation stopped. The assistant got of the phone and tried to call Dr. Murray back. There was a commotion in the bedroom that the person heard.

(The People) believe that Michael Jackson might have stopped breathing. and it was at that time that Dr. Murray became aware (of the serious condition of his patient).

DW: Dr. Murray did not call 911; he called one of Michael Jackson’s security personnel. He told security to call for help right away. He needs help. 12. 12 pm phone call (to Michael Amir Williams, Jackson’s personal assistant).


Michael Amir Williams was not at the location. Michael Amir calls Faheem Mohammed (head of Jackson’s security) who was not at the location either. They both drive back towards the house. Learning that Faheem was not at the house Michael Amir calls someone else. At 12 :17 pm Alberto Alvarez receives a phone from Michael Amir.

Security was stationed outside the house. They had their own trailer (on the property). The security detail was finally allowed upstairs where Dr. Murry was (treating Jackson). (Alberto Alvarez) sees Dr. Murray trying to do CPR on the bed, one handed. Dr. Murray repeats that Michael Jackson had a bad reaction.

DW: Dr. Murray begins to distract Alvarez to collect evidence. 911 has not yet been called or ordered to be called by Dr. Murray.

Dr. Murray is having Alveraz help him collect various bottles of medicine, medical paraphernalia medical bottles, wrappings, and dropping them in (his medical?) bag. Dr. Murray tells Alvarez to grab the bag on the IV that was hanging. Alberto Alvarez grabs that bag and places it in with the other items.. It’s only then he is told to call 911. The 911 was placed at 12 21 pm.

Alverez was called (by Michael Amir) at 12 12 pm The shortest time Dr. Murray waited to call was 9 minutes. That’s assuming that 12:12 is the first time that Dr. Murry knows of Michael Jackson’s demise. Circumstantially it was at 12 noon that Dr. Murry may have paid enough attention to Michael Jackson (to notice his distress). Paramedics were on site within 4 minutes.

(Paramedics found) Michael Jackson’s eyes were fixed and dilated. Wide open. He was cool to the touch. Systole. Completely flat lined. Cold to the touch.

(According to) paramedics Goodwin, Senneth (sp?) and Blunt, Michael Jackson was dead upon arrival of their treatment. They did not observe any standard medical treatment that one would expect to see with Poropfol. such as a heart monitor, (oxygen?) etc. Paramedic Senneth asked about his underlying medical condition. Dr. Murray , told him there was nothing. He (Michael Jackson) was dehydrated. The only thing Dr. Murray reveals to the paramedics is the (nordiazepam). He doesn’t mention the benzodiazepines or giving Michael Jackson Propofol.

If the paramedics had the full information they could have acted appropriately. (The doctors at UCLA; same thing.) He never told the paramedics or the UCLA doctors about the Propofol!)

Paramedics treating at 12:27 pm. The paramedics treatments all failed.

12 ;57 pm. (UCLA?) advises they are prepared to call it. They announce Michael Jackson deceased.

Dr. Murray states he will assume care.

1:07 pm The medical team takes Jackson to UCLA: (Arrive?) 1:13 pm, where the care is taken over by Dr. Cooper and Dr. Winn of UCLA. They also inquired of Dr. Murray what Michael Jackson was treated (with). All they were told was he had given him (mirazapam?), a Valium, and also on flomax. He did not mention anything about the {ropofol treatment. Not a word was said about Propofol to UCLA doctors.

DW: They tried all they could to bring Michael Jackson back to life. He remained asystole. Dr. Cooper, at 2:26 pm pronounced Jackson dead. At some point Dr. Murray walked out of the hospital and went on his way. LAPD tried to contact Dr. Murray; they were not able to reach him. Two days later he was interviewed by LAPD with his attorney. It was at that interview where it was learned what Dr. Murray had given Michael Jackson.

DW: The autopsy concluded that Michael Jackson died of acute Psssropofol poisoning along with benzodiazepine. the court will learn from these medical experts, there are a number of actions of Dr. Murray did that deviated from the expected standard of care.

The fact that Propofol was given in a home setting instead of a surgical room, without the assisting medical equipment. The fact that no attending staff or assistants was made available for Dr. Murray. The fact that it was given in conjunction with several benzodiazepine’s. The fact that he was trying to do CPR with one hand on a bed. (The fact that there was a failure to maintain any appropriate medical records, and the failure to advise the paramedics or treating medical doctors (to the medications/treatment given).

This is the end of the prosecution’s opening statement. From this alone, it sounds bad for Dr. Murray.

Defense Atty., Ed Chernoff will not prepare an opening statement.