People News

Man Makes Molestation Claims in Jackson Case

By James Wray Apr 5, 2005, 3:00 GMT

The son of Michael Jackson's former housekeeper has told jurors the pop star molested him during a tickling game in 1990.

The 24-year-old man was called to the stand yesterday (04APR05) as prosecutors in Jackson's child molestation case began trying to prove the 46-year-old has a history of abusing young boys.
 
The witness said that over several years, Jackson twice touched his groin over his clothes during tickling games at Jackson's Los Angeles home - and in a third incident reached under his clothes at the star's Neverland ranch.

Jackson gave him $100 (£52) after each of the first two incidents but nothing after the third one, he claimed.

While fighting back tears, the witness, who prosecutors say received a $2.4 million (£1.2 million) settlement from Jackson in 1994, told the court, "He was tickling me. I was wearing shorts again... He reached on my leg and I'm still laughing and he reached up to my - privates."

The appearance of the young man was allowed under last week's (ends01APR05) ruling that prosecutors may present evidence suggesting Jackson molested or otherwise behaved inappropriately with five boys before the current allegations took place.

Jackson has pleaded not guilty to 10 felony charges of child molestation, administering an intoxicating agent and conspiracy involving allegations of child abduction, false imprisonment and extortion.

The trial continues.