Michael Jackson is again at the center of controversy as a California appeals court has revived lawsuits filed by two boys alleging sexual abuse. Initially dismissed by a lower court, these lawsuits have resurfaced, bringing attention to the disturbing allegations against the legendary musician.
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On Friday, August 19, the California courts appealed on reviving lawsuits from Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who alleged Michael Jackson sexually abused them for years when they were boys.
Despite the 2021 dismissal of the case, a three-judge panel from California’s 2nd District Court of Appeal has overturned the decision, stating:
“A corporation that facilitates the sexual abuse of children by one if its employees is not excused from an affirmative duty to protect those children merely because it is solely owned by the perpetrator of the abuse.”
In the 1990s, Wade Robson, an Australian boy, first encountered the late King of Pop after winning a dance competition. Encouraged by the megastar, Robson and his mother moved to Los Angeles. In 1993, Robson accused Jackson of sexual abuse but later recanted his statements.
During Jackson’s 2005 trial, Robson swore that no inappropriate behavior occurred. However, in 2013, Robson changed his stance, alleging that Jackson had abused him between 1990 and 1997 during the ages of 7 to 14.
These allegations were further explored in the documentary Leaving Neverland. Similarly, James Safechuck claims he was sexually abused by Jackson from 1988 to 1992, beginning when he was just ten.
The attorney representing Jackson’s estate, Jonathan Steinsapir, vehemently argues Jackson’s innocence and dismisses the claims as money-driven motives. The defense maintains that employees should not be held responsible for the actions of their superiors.
However, a recent California law has enabled the reopening of certain cases due to a legislative change. It extends the age limit for individuals claiming they were sexually abused to file lawsuits.
The age threshold has been increased from 26 to 40 years old. Additionally, the law introduces a three-year timeframe for victims of any age to initiate legal action, with this window beginning on January 1.
Amid recent news, fans of the late King of Pop are joining forces to defend him on social media, making use of the hashtag “#MJIsInnocent,” which is currently gaining traction on platform “X.” One advocate conveyed their standpoint by posting, “In the end, I’ll always be with Michael Jackson’s side because I’m confident that these accusations against him are COMPLETELY FALSE. The Truth will always Prevail.”
On the flip side, another user presented an alternate viewpoint, noting, “It baffles me how quick ya’ll are to dismiss these victims just because of his fame status…”
Similarly, the recent sentencing of R. Kelly to 20 years in prison for federal sex crimes, including child pornography charges, highlights the extensive legal battles faced by high-profile figures accused of sexual abuse.
