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Accusations against Jackson revealed
Showbiz
13:30 01 March 2005
(BANG) - Michael Jackson was accused yesterday (28.02.05) of corrupting a young cancer victim, who he "groomed for abuse".
On the first day of his child molestation trial jurors heard how the singer reportedly exploited 13-year-old Gavin Arvizo's innocence, whose dying wish was to meet his idol.
The prosecution told the Santa Maria courtroom how Jackson reportedly appeared naked before boys while sexually aroused and showed them sexually explicit magazines. He also talked to Gavin about masturbation and was allegedly caught twice with his hands down Gavin's pants by the victim's younger brother.
Sneddon said: "It was a calculated attempt to change his moral antennae... to convince him that what was being done was alright."
It was also claimed Jackson kept a secret stash of photos of children in a box at the end of his bed.
However, the superstar's defence team say Gavin's family used his illness to tap a string of celebrities for cash.
Thomas Meserau, who called the 10 molestation charges against his client "fake, silly, ridiculous" said: "The best known celebrity, the most vulnerable, became that family's mark - Michael Jackson."
Jackson, who denies all the charges, could face 20 years in jail if found guilty.
(c) BANG Media International
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