Jurors in Conrad Murray's involuntary manslaughter trial began deliberations Friday (November 04) to decide Murray's culpability in Michael Jackson's 2009 death. As the jury deliberated, demonstrators both for and against the doctor protested outside the Los Angeles courthouse, waiting to see if a verdict would be reached on the first day.
SOUNDBITE: Michelle Lee saying:
"Records show that he lied and I think he's guilty that day of not keeping an eye on Michael. I believe he was guilty that day."
SOUNDBITE: Sandy Burns saying:
"There's more than likely going to be a verdict back today because the evidence is overwhelming on the prosecution's side and he's going to be found guilty."
SOUNDBITE: Beatrice Fakhrian saying:
"The moment that they return, we will all have answers to our many questions. I feel that he will be exonerated."
Prosecutors contend Murray is criminally liable for Jackson's death because he recklessly administered propofol, a potent surgical anesthetic drug, and was negligent in properly monitoring Jackson.
The defense claims that Jackson gave himself a lethal dose of the drug.
If convicted, Murray faces up to four years in prison.
Lindsay Claiborn, Reuters.