So Conrad Murray has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and remanded to the custody of local law enforcement. What’s next?
Conrad Murray’s sentencing.
What will those memoranda contain?
To start, involuntary manslaughter carries a maximum sentence of 4 years under California law. Both sides will thus present arguments for and against prison time and probation.
The prosecutor will likely point out Murray’s lack of remorse and his refusal to take responsibility for his involvement in Michael Jackson’s death. He will also attempt to leverage the severity of Murray’s behavior into a longer sentence.
Murray’s defense attorney will instead present mitigating factors that suggest he deserves a shorter sentence. He will point to the absence of a criminal history and Murray’s long career as a medical professional. He will likely also argue that Murray was pressured by Jackson to provide propofol.
In addition to probation and jail time, Judge Pastor ordered both sides to discuss restitution. California law allows the family of a manslaughter victim to recover lost earnings. Given Michael Jackson’s incredible earning power, restitution will be a highly contentious part of Conrad Murray’s sentencing.
As of now, it’s impossible to predict just how Conrad Murray’s sentencing hearing will end. But keep in mind that California’s prisons are overcrowded, so it’s very possible that Murray will serve significantly less time than ordered.
Related Resources:
- Conrad Murray found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in Michael Jackson’s death (CBS)
- Involuntary Manslaughter (FindLaw)
- Conrad Murray Trial: What Is the CSI Effect? (FindLaw Blotter)
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