Michael Jackson's Cardiologist Will Likely Face Criminal Charges

The doctor who gave Michael Jackson powerful sedatives the night of his untimely passing is likely to be indicted on involuntary manslaughter charges. The Associated Press reports that prosecutors appear to be preparing to press charges against cardiologist Dr. Conrad Murray, who treated Jackson's persistent insomnia with propofol -- a dangerously strong anesthetic -- on June 25, the night of Jackson's death.

The LA Country Coroner declared Jackson's death a homicide, with "acute propofol intoxication" listed as the actual cause. An unhealthy mixture of other, more common, benzodiazepines were also named as contributing factors. These drugs include lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam (Valium) and ephedrine.


Dr. Murray administered propofol to Jackson so that the stressed performer could get some much needed sleep, but then reportedly abandoned his duties to use the restroom. According to documents, he also made phone calls for the better part of an hour. It was after this series of events that Dr. Murray realized Jackson had become unresponsive. The coroner has expressed his belief that Jackson did not have a proven medical need for propofol, that the proper medical equipment was not present for such a treatment and that a professional protocol was not followed.

If this case goes to trial, it will likely draw fresh debate as to whether or not an established doctor's expert opinion could be considered criminal if the patient succumbs to certain, known risks involved. This will not be the first time such questions have been raised but, this time, it seems as if the whole world will be asking them.

There is obviously a lot more involved in pursuing a case like this, which is why, seven months after Jackson's death, legal action has yet to actually be filed. But it looks as if things are headed that way and, perhaps, almost there. Stay tuned.