Accuser's mother says Jackson 'fooled the world' about children

The mother of Michael Jackson's young accuser claimed yesterday that the singer had managed to "fool the world" that he cared about children.

Janet Arvizo launched a stinging attack on Mr Jackson saying he "really didn't care about children, he cared about what he was doing with children".

"He managed to fool the world. Now, because of this criminal case, people know who he really is."

Mrs Arvizo, whose son Gavin claims to have been molested by the singer, launched her outburst during her fourth day in the witness box at the court in Santa Monica, California.

Mr Jackson, who denies 10 charges, including child abuse and false imprisonment, could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Mrs Arvizo, a key prosecution witness on the conspiracy charge, has repeatedly clashed with defence lawyers during her lengthy cross-examination.

She earlier told the court that she largely denied responsibility for various schemes and events arranged to raise money for her cancer-stricken son Gavin. However, she admitted she had received various cheques and set up a bank account to which people were able to donate money to help the family pay for medical treatment.

She acknowledged that this was despite the fact that the medical bills were covered by the health insurance of her former husband.

But she denied asking Mr Jackson's aides for money, telling the jury: "Money doesn't buy happiness."

The case continues.