Will Conrad Murray Testify? Should He?
Word is that Prince, Michael Jackson's 14-year-old son, is set to testify at the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray. But will Conrad Murray testify? He is the defendant, after all.
There is some indication that Murray wishes to tell his story, but the defense has yet to make a final decision. Just as in the cases of Casey Anthony, Barry Bonds, and Rob Blagojevich, we probably won't have an answer until the final days of the trial.
But in light of the following evidence, he may want to take the stand.
Conrad Murray asserts that it was Jackson who administered the lethal dose of propofol. But testimony has painted an entirely different picture.
Bodyguards, assistants, and a concert promoter testified that Michael Jackson was incredibly weak, reports CNN. Murray also requested a CPR machine the week prior to Jackson's death. Was Jackson coordinated enough to operate an IV?
Other testimony accuses Conrad Murray of delaying medical assistance in order to hide evidence. One bodyguard says Murray ordered him to hide medicine and an IV bag, reports the Associated Press. Another testified that Murray asked to return to Jackson's home so he could remove an "embarrassing cream."
The jury likely has a number of questions. Was Conrad Murray aware of Michael Jackson's diminished health? Should Jackson have ever received propofol? Why didn't Murray immediately call 911? And what was the cream?
Some of these are questions that only Murray can answer. And if he doesn't, the jury may be left to think the worst.
So, should Conrad Murray testify? Yes. Will he? Who knows?
Related Resources:
- Michael Jackson insiders describe death chaos (CBS)
- Conrad Murray Trial: What Is the CSI Effect? (FindLaw Blotter)
- Top 3 Reasons Casey Anthony Should Not Testify (FindLaw Blotter)