In closing arguments in the Conrad Murray trial, Los Angeles County prosecutor David Walgren argued to a jury that the physician was negligent, unethical and careless and that his actions led to Michael Jackson’s death, leaving his three children fatherless.
“For Michael’s children, this case will go on forever because they do not have a father,” he said. “They do not have a father because of the actions of Conrad Murray.”
(MORE: Jackson’s Death: How Dangerous Is Propofol?)
The trial, which has gone on for six weeks, called dozens of witnesses and focused on the expert testimony of two scientists who are among the most knowledgeable in the country about the general anesthetic propofol, which is said to have killed Jackson. After L.A. Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor gave the jury instructions, Walgren began an emotional, stern speech in which he invoked Jackson’s daughter Paris screaming upon seeing her father near death, and called defense witness Dr. Paul White’s testimony “junk science.”
Ultimately, Walgren said that if Murray had followed basic medical procedures, and called 911 in time, Jackson would still be alive. “Maybe he’s panicked. Maybe he’s cleaning up … But he’s putting Conrad Murray first. He’s intentionally not calling 911. He’s intentionally delaying help that could have saved Michael Jackson’s life.”
Murray is charged with involuntary manslaughter and faces up to four years in prison and loss of his medical license if convicted.