Jackson Regrets Past Payoffs to Accusers

Michael Jackson's attorney says the pop singer has in the past paid to settle child molestation claims in order to "buy peace" for himself, but now regrets the payoffs because "greed begets greed."

Defense attorney Tom Mesereau read a statement with Jackson standing beside him outside a pre-trial hearing in the pending child molestation case against Jackson. He said Jackson regrets not fighting the previous accusations in court to clear his name.

"Many years ago, he did pay money rather than litigate two false allegations that he had harmed children," Mesereau said. "Mr. Jackson now regrets making these payments. ... Mr. Jackson always denied doing anything wrong. Mr. Jackson had hoped to buy peace in the process. ... He should have fought these actions to the bitter end and vindicated himself."

In the current case which is schedule for trial Jan. 31, Jackson denies charges of sexually molesting a teenage boy and plying him with alcohol. He is also accused of conspiring to keep the boy's family silent by making them virtual prisoners at his Neverland ranch.

See Reuters:
Jackson Now Regrets Paying Off Molestation Claims
See MTV News:
Mother Of Michael Jackson's Accuser Testifies

Background:
The Michael Jackson Case
False Imprisonment: The Michael Jackson Case
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