Michael Jackson’s personal physician, Dr Conrad Murray, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter over his use of propofol, the super-strong surgical anaesthetic that caused Jacko’s lonely death.
The jury ruled unanimously that he had been criminally negligent. There was a cry from a woman on the public benches as the verdict was announced at Los Angeles Superior Court.
Murray, 58, now faces up to four years in jail and the end of his medical career. But if he is jailed, he may only serve a few months.
He looked intently at the court clerk as she read the unanimous verdict, then turned to look at the jury. He looked exhausted and showed no emotion.
There were shouts of delight from hundreds of placard-waving Jackson fans who had gathered outside the court.
Jackson`s sisters, La Toya and Rebbie, are relieved and happy at the result. After the verdict was announced on Monday, his sisters let fans know they were happy with the climax of the trial.
“Victory was served,” said La Toya, while her sister added: “I`m just happy it`s over with. Nothing will bring him back, but I`m just happy he (Murray) was found guilty.”
La Toya confirmed she was the courtroom guest who said “Yes!” as the verdict was read.
The Jackson family has been a constant presence in court throughout the trial, and Janet Jackson cut short her Australian tour to be at Monday`s climax. She was joined by brothers Randy and Jermaine and her parents Joe and Katherine.
A statement from Katherine and Joe Jackson read: “We have been waiting for this moment for a very long time and we couldn’t hold back tears of joy in the courtroom. Even though nothing can bring back our son, justice has finally been served!”
The two added: “We can`t wait to go home and share this day with Michael’s children.”
The 50-year-old Jackson died on 25 June 2009 at his Holmby Hills estate in Los Angeles when he was preparing for his comeback series of 50 sold-out London concerts.
The Los Angeles County Coroner`s Office ruled Jackson died of “acute propofol intoxication”.
Dr Murray’s lawyers are considering an appeal.
