Jackson witness admits oath lie

Michael Jackson denies the charges of child abuse

The 14-year-old boy who told a court he saw Michael Jackson sexually molesting his older brother has admitted that he once lied under oath in court.

Star Arvizo made the admission - about a separate case - as Mr Jackson's lawyers cross-examimed him on the seventh day of the trial in California.

Lawyers also probed inconsistencies in evidence given to the court on Monday.

Mr Jackson denies 10 charges of child abuse and false imprisonment. He faces up to 21 years in jail if convicted.

During a half-day session on Tuesday, Star Arvizo was quizzed about a previous lawsuit his family brought against retail chain JC Penney.

Star admitted he had lied under oath in that case, when he claimed his parents never fought and that his father never hit him.

The defence team is seeking to portray Janet Arvizo - the mother of Mr Jackson's alleged victim Gavin Arvizo - as someone who encouraged her children to lie in order to bring false allegations.

Inconsistencies

Mr Jackson's lawyers also questioned Star Arvizo about an electronic alarm they say is fitted in the corridor approaching the singer's bedroom - where Star Arvizo alleges he walked in on the incidents.

The boy admitted the electronic bell sounded both times but said it was not heard by either his brother or Michael Jackson.

Mr Jackson's lawyer Tom Mesereau asserted that Star Arvizo's version of events had changed several times.

The boy denied changing his story but said on numerous occasions that he could not remember what he had previously said.

On Monday, he alleged he saw the singer fondle his brother while they stayed at the Neverland ranch.

He also accused Mr Jackson of giving the brothers alcohol and showing them pornography.