Michael Jackson was acquitted of all 10 charges by a California jury today arising out of an incident when he allegedly sexually molested a then 13-year-old cancer patient in his Neverland ranch.
The jury found Jackson not guilty on all charges including conspiracy charges to hold the accuser and his family at the Neverland ranch, serving alcohol to minors and the actual molestation charges themselves.
A frail looking Jackson entered the courtroom at approximately 1:45 PM PDT. He was walking gingerly and had a very pained expression on his face. For the first time in recent memory, he wore a tie and no vest.
The pop star was accompanied by many members of his family including sisters Janet and LaToya, brothers Tito, Jermaine and both of his parents.
Outside the courthouse, an estimated crowd of more than 1,000 people gathered to support Jackson when the verdict was read. They cheered wildly when Jackson and his entourage drove up in his black SUV and Jackson gave his supporters a feeble wave.
The crowd celebrated as each not guilty verdict was read. One woman even released a dove for each time 'not guilty' was announced by the jury foreperson.
Jackson can now return to his Neverland ranch. The question is, after all the allegations and the damaging testimony about him, what possible future does the 'King of Pop' have in the music business?
