Jacko trial to hear previous abuse claims
Judge Rodney Melville made his decision at Santa Maria court, California, after hearing argument from both sides.
The testimony will prove crucial and will have a huge impact on the case against the pop star. It is a significant setback for the Jackson team.
Prosecutor Tom Sneddon launched a blistering attack on the singer, claiming his past was littered with sexual abuse of young boys and that he had witnesses ready to testify.
In the absence of the jury, he told Judge Melville that one child would claim Jackson touched his genitals on three separate occasions, once “thrusting” his hands into the boy’s pants.
Evidence will also be admitted from his 1990 accuser that he received a £1.28 million settlement from the star.
The singer’s 1993 accuser, Jordy Chandler, will not testify, and Mr Sneddon made no direct reference to the case.
However, he suggested other witnesses would come forward who had seen Jackson in bed with children while their underwear was on the floor.
Mr Sneddon claimed witnesses would testify to incidents involving four boys who were allegedly abused by Jackson.
The alleged touching included kissing, hugging and inserting his hand into children’s pants, he said. “All of these children are basically within the ages of 10 and 13.”
