Dr Conrad Murray, Michael Jackson’s doctor who prosecutors claimed was the one responsible for the death of the King of Pop, was released by authorities after he posted a $75,000 bail on an accusation of involuntary manslaughter. Murray posted the bail after turning himself in to authorities.
Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Steve Whitmore said that Murray was freed on Monday.
Earlier that day, Murray appeared before the Superior Court and declared himself not guilty of the charge. He is set to spend four years in prison if proven otherwise.
According to prosecutors, Murray acted “unlawfully and without malice”, with reference to the death of Michael Jackson. They added that he did not display the proper amount of care and caution that was required by his profession when he gave Jackson the sedative.
Authorities have been investigating Murray since Jackson’s death on 25 June 2009 at his rented house located in Los Angeles, California.
Murray affirmed to the public that he had given Jackson the anaesthetic drug propofol, and other drugs as well, to help him sleep. Jackson had been diagnosed with insomnia and had difficulty sleeping.
Nevertheless, the doctor rejected the idea that he had administered to Jackson anything that may have caused his death.
Murray’s lawyer said that the physician intends to practice his profession in Houston and Las Vegas while waiting for the trial to begin.
However, officials say they are planning to ask the court to suspend his license while on bail.
