Attorneys on both sides of the Michael Jackson trial took their gloves off during blistering closing arguments Thursday.
In his nearly three hour presentation to the jury, prosecutor Ron Zonen spent much time attacking Jackson’s attorneys for not delivering on promises made in their opening remarks. He focused on the conspiracy charges, only mentioning the alleged molestation two hours into his argument.
Zonen painted Jackson as a child predator with a drinking problem who seduced children with pornography and then lured them into his bedroom.
Lead defense attorney Thomas Mesereau spared none in a fiery closing argument which is due to be completed Friday. Mesereau referred to the accuser’s family as "con artists, actors and liars" who have in the past fraudulently sought money on many occasions. He said the Arvizo’s would benefit financially if Jackson was found guilty.
The defense attorney cried foul at prosecutor’s attempts to dehumanise Jackson, describing it as a desperate last resort.
"They have dirtied him up because he's human. But they haven't proven their case because they can't," said Mesereau.
Source: AP/Reuters/eMJey