Fresh bid to dismiss Jackson case

Michael Jackson has denied 10 child abuse charges

Singer Michael Jackson's lawyers have said the child molestation case against him should be dropped because his home was unnecessarily searched.

They argue that recent raids on his Neverland ranch were "clearly designed to shock and intimidate" the pop star.

More than 100 search warrants have been issued in the case, but his lawyers said the information gathered could have been obtained through the courts.

The plea could also lead to the trial's 31 January start date being delayed.

Mr Jackson's California home was last searched at the beginning of December, despite a warrant being issued on 24 November.

Unfairly treated

The singer's defence lawyers argue this was a ploy to disrupt their preparations close to a court appearance.

They also contend that Mr Jackson is being treated unfairly due to his celebrity status.

"No other person in the history of Santa Barbara has been treated this way," lawyer Robert Sanger said in the submission.

The authorities did not reveal what they were looking for in the last Neverland probe.

No person in the history of Santa Barbara has been treated this way Jackson's lawyer Robert Sanger

But lawyers said in this latest file that "saliva is typically obtained" through the court system rather than at a person's home.

The prosecution most recently said they have unearthed "prior sexual offences" involving Mr Jackson.

They say the 46-year-old shows a "propensity" towards such crimes.

The latest motions will be discussed on 20 December.

The 46-year-old entertainer has pleaded not guilty to charges of child molestation, conspiracy and administering an intoxicating agent to his alleged victim.