New Jackson charges dropped

Dec 5, 2006, 12:40 GMT

Michael Jackson will not face new child molestation and fraud charges.

However, the singer still stands accused of allegations of assault, battery, wilful misconduct, false imprisonment and sexual battery.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Rolf Treu dismissed charges of molestation, plagiarism, fraud, breach of contract, negligence, civil conspiracy and unfair business practices on Monday (04.12.06).

Jackson was accused of a series of unsavoury acts by 21-year-old Daniel Kapon earlier this year.

Kapon claims Jackson "repeatedly and forcefully sexually molested him" from the age of two until he was 14.

Kapon's lawsuit - originally filed in Orange County in January, but transferred to Los Angeles County in March - claims that from 1987 Jackson forced him to take drugs and drink alcohol, made him undergo unnecessary cosmetic surgery, and burned, tortured and beat him.

Kapon also accuses Jackson of "false imprisonment" at various times between 1987 and 1991 at his Neverland Ranch.

The plaintiff had claimed Jackson stole his song lyrics and melodies when the 'Bad', 'Dangerous' and 'HIStory' albums were released.

However, Kapon was aged between four and 14 at this time.

Jackson's case is set to go to trial next June.

It has been reported that if Jackson is asked to testify, he will do so via a taped deposition.

The 'Thriller' singer hasn't returned to the US since he was acquitted of criminal molestation charges 18 months ago.

(C) BANG Media International