LOS ANGELES (AP) — A judge has ordered the personal physician of Michael Jackson to stand trial for involuntary manslaughter in the death of the pop superstar.
The ruling against Dr. Conrad Murray came Tuesday after a six-day preliminary hearing in Los Angeles.
Authorities contend the 57-year-old Murray gave Jackson a lethal dose of the powerful anesthetic propofol mixed with other sedatives then failed to provide proper care.
Prosecutors concluded the hearing with testimony from two doctors who said Murray acted outside the standard of medical care.
Both witnesses said that even if Jackson had self-administered the last dose of the anesthetic, his death would be a homicide because of Murray’s actions.
The doctor has pleaded not guilty, and his attorneys have said he did not give Jackson anything that should have killed him.
Murray could face up to four years in prison if convicted.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Prosecutors have rested their case at a preliminary hearing for a doctor charged in Michael Jackson’s death, and both sides are awaiting a judge’s ruling on whether Dr. Conrad Murray will stand trial for involuntary manslaughter.
Los Angeles Superior Judge Michael Pastor concluded the hearing Tuesday after six days of testimony from more than 20 witnesses who mostly detailed Murray’s actions during Jackson’s final hours.
Pastor must decide if there is enough evidence to merit a trial.
Prosecutors have contended the Houston-based cardiologist was on the phone and distracted after administering a powerful anesthetic to Jackson. They also presented evidence the singer was dead by the time Murray summoned help.
Murray is accused of giving Jackson a lethal dose of propofol mixed with other sedatives. He has pleaded not guilty.
His lawyers did not call any witnesses during the hearing.