Jury To Begin Deliberations In Conrad Murray Case Today
The Conrad Murray involuntary manslaughter trial has lasted for 23 days, with 49 witnesses.
The jury listened to the experts from both sides, including two experts for each side testifying about the use and dangers of Propofol. The defense says that Michael Jackson self administered the Propofol resulting in his death. The prosecution says that Dr. Murray is responsible for ensuring the proper use of the Propofol, and the safety of his patient.
The state says that Dr. Murray was set to get $150,000 a month, and was willing to do whatever he was asked to do to make the money. They contend that he didn’t intend to kill Jackson, but he was negligent in allowing Jackson to be given the drug without the proper equipment for monitoring oxygen, pulse, and blood pressure, among other things.
The defense says that Dr. Murray is basically the scapegoat, being blamed for Jackson’s own doings. They claim that Jackson orally ingested the drug, which led to his death in 2009.
“If it were anybody else but Michael Jackson, would this doctor be here today?” — Defense attorney Edward Chernoff in closing arguments.
The defense goes on to say that if Dr. Murray was negligent, then it was a matter for the medical board, and not a criminal courtroom.
The prosecution got one more chance to address the jury after the defense was done. They pointed out how the defense team was blaming everyone but Dr. Murray.
”…everybody but Conrad Murray, poor Conrad Murray. If allowed more time to argue, I am sure they would find a way to blame Michael’s son, Prince.” — Deputy district attorney David Walgren during his rebuttal closing argument.
It is now up to a jury of seven men and five women. Dr. Conrad Murray is only charged with involuntary manslaughter, and could face up to four years in prison.
- Jury will announce that they have reached a verdict to the judge by pressing a buzzer.
- There will be a two hour delay between reaching the verdict and announcing the verdict, giving everyone a chance to get back.
- If jury has any questions, the judge will most likely handle them via phone, so that they don’t all have to return to the courtroom.
Get more details about the Dr. Conrad Murray involuntary manslaughter trial here.
