Security Tightens For Michael Jackson Funeral
Sept. 3 2009, Published 5:43 a.m. ET
Michael Jackson's funeral will be watched by millions but protected by a network of security committed to maintaining his privacy and security from the day of his funeral onwards. Authorities at Forest Lawn Cemetery and the Glendale police department have made arrangements to ensure Jackson's funeral ceremony will remain an intimate one reserved for family and close friends.
One report confirmed that Randy Jackson was nominated by his family to make sure that his brother’s final resting place is as private and secure as possible.
Extraordinary steps have been taken before Jackson’s body is even placed in the star studded Great Mausoleum that includes Clark Gable, Jean Harlow and W.C. Fields: Armed private guards are patrolling the cemetery to keep any unwanted intruders out, a police helicopter is sweeping with infrared cameras searching for any stowaway photographers hiding on the grounds, and there is a three mile "no-fly" zone around the cemetery between 5pm and 10pm except for police helicopters.
The cemetery will also be shut to the public and anyone wanting to visit their family in the mausoleum where Jackson will be placed will be accompanied by cemetery security at all times.
The interior of The Great Mausoleum is ringed with security cameras and alarms with individual plots being walled-off. Family members and plot holders must pass through guards and security cameras and the areas are manned to make sure nobody without the correct credentials are allowed inside.
An LAPD spokesperson told RadarOnline.com: “Both Forest Lawn and Glendale Police are coordinating the funeral and we will be standing-by to help if that request is made. All measures are being taken to keep this as private an event as possible for the family at this time.”
Jackson's estate will absorb the cost of the service including the policing and other private costs incurred.
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