People News

Michael Jackson's debt deadline

Mar 14, 2006, 12:31 GMT

Michael Jackson has until the end of today (14.03.06) to pay his Neverland Ranch staff - or face a court battle.

California state regulators gave the 'Bad' star the deadline after workers claimed he owed them $306,000 in back pay.

Dean Fryer, a spokesman for the California Department of Industrial Relations, said: 'It's pretty clear that he owes this money.

'We've got all these wage claims. People are telling me they haven't been paid from Dec. 19.

'If they don't comply then we file suit to get a judgment,'

The ruling means that if Jackson fails to pay up on time, he will be taken to court and made to the outstanding wages plus a $69,000 fine and $100,000 in penalties.

The singer's spokeswoman, Raymone K. Bain, told state regulators that the eccentric star 'is aware' of the problems and is 'sure this will be resolved.'

However, Jackson - who was last year cleared of child sex charges - has been rumoured to be in financial trouble.

Forensic accountant John Duross O'Bryan testified at the star's trial claiming the entertainer had an 'ongoing cash crisis' and was spending $20 million to $30 million more per year than he earned.

Jackson's people deny the 'Black Or White' singer is short of funds. &EngCP; BANG Media International

Copyright 2006 BANG Media International