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Jackson ordered to pay $900,000

15/07/2006

Michael Jackson's savings have taken another battering after being ordered to pay $900,000 (£490,000) to an ex-business associate.

The singer has been rumoured to be having money trouble after an expensive legal defence battle against child molestation charges in a Santa Monica court last year.

Earlier this year, his Neverland ranch was shut down by authorities after he failed to pay staff and maintain insurance on the property.

In his latest legal battle, ex-business associate and former gay porn producer Marc Schaffel claimed Mr Jackson owed him around £2 million for work on an unreleased charity record and a set of documentaries.

Mr Schaffel was fired after Mr Jackson learned of his porn past.

In a cross-complaint, Mr Jackson claimed Mr Schaffel owed him $660,000 (£330,000), and accused him of mis-appropriating funds. The jury awarded the singer $200,000 (£100,000).

Jury deliberations lasted for two days in the case, with the jury returning to ask the civil court whether it could return with a split decision.

Speaking outside court, Mr Schaffel said: "Obviously, I'm very happy. We got less than I asked for but considering all the factors on what we were able to present, I'm pleased."


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