Michael Jackson Criticises Leak Of Settlement

Michael Jackson has criticised the leaking of the settlement he made to end the 1993 molestation charges against him.

According to the agreement, the boy, then 13, received 15.3million, with payments also going to his parents ($1.5m each) and lawyer ($5m). "These kinds of attacks and leaks seek to try the case in the press, rather than to a jury who will hear all of the evidence that will show that I did not, and would not, ever, harm a child," Jackson said in a statement.

"I have always maintained my innocence, and vehemently denied that these events ever took place. I reluctantly chose to settle the false claims only to end the terrible publicity and to continue with my life and career."

Jackson is currently awaiting trial on 10 counts of committing lewd acts on a boy under the age of 14 as well as child abduction, extortion and false imprisonment. "I ask all of my neighbours in Santa Maria, the people to whom I give my loyal trust and admiration, to keep an open mind and give me a chance to show that I am completely innocent of these charges," the singer said. "I will not let you down."

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