Judge Sets Tentative Trial Date

May 29, 2004

Yesterday, May 28th, Michael Jackson’s attorneys were in court once again to attend a hearing which would discuss issues such as unsealing documents, possible bail reduction, and a possible date for trial later this year, according to the Associated Press. Judge Melville decided to set a tentative date of September 13th for the trial, stating the date was "a bull's eye that we're shooting at" after acknowledging the fact that this date may not be possible after objections made by the Defence.

"We have a client who has endured the cloud of this case for the better part of six to seven months," said Steve Cochran, one of the King of Pop’s attorneys. The Defence argued that the tentative date would not possible as the Prosecution have failed to hand over substantial evidence for examination.

Cochran continued, "and we still don't have the forensic tests.... The materials we're seeing make reference to informants, but we have not been given the identities of the informants. We have been given some tape recordings that are inaudible."

The Prosecution then stated they had in fact handed over almost all of their evidence as obliged, including 2,202 pages of reports, 69 audio tapes, two video tapes and one CD-ROM of photographs. "Next week, the pipeline will be essentially empty," Deputy District Attorney Gordon Auchincloss said. There are also said to be 9 pieces of evidence still needing to undergo forensic testing.

Judge Melville also delayed his ruling on whether or not to reduce Michael’s $3 million bail. Melville stated he would address this motion as well as motions to unseal documents at the next hearing on June 25th.


- From www.mjni.com