Michael Jackson

I have no interest in the Michael Jackson case, and have deliberately avoided any mention of it here. However, now that it is over, I will offer one gripe about the media coverage in the last 24 hours and then forever shun this topic.

The Associated Press reports as follows:

Michael Jackson is innocent on all charges. A California jury delivered late Monday afternoon on the seventh day of deliberations.

It found Jackson innocent on all counts in his molestation and conspiracy trial -- setting off screams and cheers among fans gathered outside the Santa Maria, California, courthouse.

He was not found "innocent." He was found "not guilty." There is a big difference. To be acquitted, a defendant only has to establish a "reasonable doubt" regarding whether he or she committed the offense. Thus, the jury could find it more likely than not that the defendant committed the offense and still acquit, which seems to be what occurred here. (See here - "One of the jurors who acquitted Michael Jackson on all counts said he believes the pop star is "probably" a molester, but the prosecution didn't prove it.")

With that said, I hope never to type "Michael Jackson" again.