SANTA MARIA, Calif., June 9 (UPI) -- As jurors in Michael Jackson's child molestation trial deliberated a fifth day Thursday, his lead attorney distanced him from the Rev. Jesse Jackson.
Speaking to reporters at the Santa Maria, Calif., courthouse Wednesday after the minister had conducted his third news conference in a week, lead defense attorney Thomas Mesereau drew a line.
"I have not authorized anyone to speak or hold any press conferences on behalf of Michael Jackson or his family," he said.
During Wednesday's news conference, Jesse Jackson criticized the media for showing the Santa Barbara County jail cell the pop star might occupy before moving to state prison if he is convicted, the Los Angeles Times said.
Michael Jackson is accused of molesting a 13-year-old boy at his Neverland ranch in 2003, but has pleaded innocent.
His spokeswoman, Raymone Bain said Jackson is nervous but in good spirits as he awaits the verdict at his Neverland ranch, about 30 miles from the courthouse. She said all eight of his siblings are with him, as are his parents.
