Pop singer Michael Jackson issued his first public statement since being acquitted of child molestation charges two weeks ago. The statement was posted on his official website and thanked his fans for their support during the arduous four-month long trial.
In the statement, Jackson said he would not have made it through the trial 'without God, my children, my family and you, my fans.'
He later added, 'You were there when I really needed you. I will never forget you. Your ever-present love held me, dried my tears, and carried me through.'
The statement was signed, 'love, Michael Jackson.'
The 46-year-old self-proclaimed 'King of Pop' was found not guilty on 10 counts of molesting a then 13-year-old boy after serving him alcohol and then later holding the boy and his family against their will at his Neverland ranch.
'I will treasure your devotion and support forever. You are my inspiration,' Jackson said.
According to published reports by Reuters, Jackson's website compared his acquittal to the fall of the Berlin Wall and the release of anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela from a South African prison.
There is still no word as to what Jackson's next career move will be but many experts expect a new comeback tour and possibly a new album within the next year.
