Dr. Conrad Murray Pleads Not Guilty - Bail Set At $75k
Feb. 8 2010, Published 9:15 a.m. ET
Michael Jackson's personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, appeared in court Monday and pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter charges in connection with the death of the late pop star.
In more bad news for the beleaguered doctor, it was revealed in court that Murray could soon be suspended from practicing medicine, as the Attorney General has filed a motion in the case seeking to revoke Murray's medical license.
DOCUMENT: Read The Prosecutions $300,000 Bail Request
Murray was ordered to next appear in court on April 5th, Judge Schwartz ruled the court location to be changed to downtown, citing security concerns.
COURT DOCUMENTS: Read The Charges Against Murray
Attorneys for both sides gave their recommendations regarding the bail agreement for Murray. The DA wanted bail set at $300k, but Murray's attorney, Ed Chernoff, said there was no need to deviate from 25k to 300k, arguing that his client isn't a flight risk and that he has no criminal record.
The DA said that bail should be set higher because Murray was born out of the country, and that he travels outside of the country. DA also said another reason to increase bail is that Murray owes money in child support. Chernoff said that Murray is essentially broke and can't make child support payments.
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After hearing arguments from both sides, Judge Keith Schwartz said its important the judges are consistent, "I set a lot of bails everyday, 99% of the time I follow the bail schedule.
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"Dr. Murray has no criminal record, you look at all determining factors. I think 300k is too high. Main thing for me is that the offense is significant. Dr. Murray is going to be remanded into sheriff's department, bail is 75k."
The judge also ruled that Murray's passport must be turned over, but wouldn't place travel restrictions within the US.
Judge Schwartz also placed limitations on Murray's medical practice, ruling that he can't use or prescribe any anesthetic or Propofol. He also barred Murray from giving any heavy sedation meds. Murray can prescribe anxiety medications. The limitations are in place anywhere Murray is licensed to practice.
Murray was remanded into custody, but was not lead away in handcuffs.
A fact that was not lost on Michael's father Joe Jackson who was present in court. Joe tells RadarOnline.com exclusively, "I want justice. I wanted to see Dr. Murray in handcuffs."
VIDEO: Crowd Shouts ‘Murderer’ At Dr. Murray As He Arrives At Court