US: Singer Michael Jackson spoke publicly yesterday for the first time about the child sex allegations against him, saying they were "a big lie".Jackson said he would prove himself innocent in court and put "this horrible time" behind him.
The Thriller star released a statement on a website (www.mj news.us/) set up to counter the allegations, which are believed to come from a 12- or 13-year-old cancer sufferer.
"To my fans, friends and family: As you know, the charges recently directed at me are terribly serious. They are, however, predicated on a big lie. This will be shown in court and we will be able to put this horrible time behind us."
Jackson, who was arrested last Thursday after a warrant was issued, said there was only so much he could say because of the legal proceedings. "There will be times when I cannot comment at all. No doubt, this will be frustrating for all of us." He said he would not be providing a "running commentary" on the case.
"We intend to try our case in the courtroom, not in the public or the media." He added: "You are right to be sceptical of some of the individuals who are being identified in the mass media as my friends, spokespeople and attorneys.
"With few exceptions, most of them are simply filling a desperate void in our culture that equates visibility with insight . . . I thank you all for your support and understanding."
Meanwhile, the actress Elizabeth Taylor, who is a close friend of Jackson, said she believed he would be cleared of the charges.
"I believe Michael is absolutely innocent and that he will be vindicated," she said in a statement.
The 71-year-old accused the media of declaring Jackson guilty. "I thought the law was 'innocent until proven guilty'," she said.
Jackson's Neverland Ranch in California was searched by about 60 police officers last Tuesday. He was charged on Thursday in Santa Barbara, California, with sexual abuse and freed on $3 million (€2.5 million) bail. He is due in court on January 9th.
Meanwhile, a Los Angeles lawyer and long-time Jackson critic said she had reported the pop star to the authorities due to a "great concern" for the star's children.
Ms Gloria Allred said: "If you see a child that's at risk, you should report it and let the authorities do what they think is appropriate in this case. That's what I've done."
She told CNN: "To the best of my knowledge, the children are still with Mr Jackson and that is . . . of great concern."