Ruling made in Michael Jackson abuse case

A choreographer who accused Michael Jackson of years of sexual abuse cannot pursue his allegations against the singer's estate because he waited too long to file the legal action, a judge ruled.

Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff said that Wade Robson's claim is untimely and should be dismissed.

Mr Robson had previously denied the pop superstar molested him and testified in Jackson's defence at the singer's criminal trial in 2005.

He also spoke favourably about Jackson after the singer's death in 2009.

However, he sued Jackson's estate in May 2013 over the allegations.

Lawyers for Mr Robson said the singer molested him over a seven-year period. Lawyers for Jackson's estate have denied the allegations.

Mr Robson's lawyer Maryann Marzano said they will appeal against Mr Beckloff's ruling, and the molestation claim will be pursued against Jackson's business entities.

Jackson estate lawyer Howard Weitzman praised the ruling and noted Mr Robson's previous testimony about Jackson.