Conrad Murray's defense continued calling witnesses on Thursday (October 26) in his trial for the involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson.
Addiction expert Dr. Robert Waldman took the stand, but - in what could be a blow to the defense - said Jackson was not necessarily addicted to the painkiller Demerol. The defense is hoping to prove that Jackson was suffering from Demerol withdrawal and could have self-administered a fatal dose of propofol so he could sleep. But that theory was challenged by their own key witness while he was questioned by the prosecution.
SOUNDBITE: David Walgren, prosecutor, saying (English):
"Would you diagnose Michael Jackson as addicted to Demerol, based strictly on these documents?"
SOUNDBITE: Dr. Robert Waldman, addiction specialist, saying (English):
"I would diagnose him as physically dependent and because the initial doses were high for somebody who may or may not have been opioid naive, it raises the specter and question of prior opioid use."
SOUNDBITE: David Walgren, prosecutor, saying (English):
"Let me try again. Dr. Waldman, would you diagnose Michael Jackson as addicted to Demerol based strictly on these documents in my hand, yes or no."
SOUNDBITE: Dr. Robert Waldman, addiction specialist, saying (English):
"Probably not."
Murray faces up to four years in prison if convicted.
Bob Mezan, Reuters.