The former security chief for Michael Jackson testified at a hearing that he had concerns regarding the pop star's use of prescription drugs. Michael La Perruque was speaking on behalf of the defense, AEG Live, at the hearing where the Jackson family is suing the concert promoter, alleging that it contributed to Michael's decline and death. The company denies any role, suggesting that the pop star had hidden his addiction well.
La Perruque certainly indicated that the drug problem was well hidden, if it existed. He claims to have never seen the performer taking medication but still had a bad feeling about it. The former sheriff worked as Jackson's security head from 2001 to 2004, and he said he frequently found doctors to help treat Jackson on tour.
One instance he cited was during a 2001 trip to Disney World the performer went on with his family. La Perruque said Jackson's children called 911 when they found the vocalist collapsed in their hotel suite. The security chief revived the singer before paramedics arrived but testified that he found no drugs or alcohol to explain the collapse. He spoke to Jackson's doctors about his concerns that the pop star might overdose, but said he never confronted Jackson himself about the issue because he didn't want to rile him up.
La Perruque indicated that he had fairly reliable sources that Jackson was using, and as AEG has suggested, the singer kept it hidden from his family. Brother Randy Jackson came to the Neverland Ranch once to discuss the issue with Michael and the latter turned him away. La Perruque also said he received nearly 30 phone calls from the pop star, mumbling incoherently.
Jackson's former wife and the mother of his children, Debbie Rowe, is expected to take the stand next week.
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