NEWSJacksons: No Public Neverland Memorial
Jul. 1 2009, Published 7:38 a.m. ET
Despite previous reports that indicated there would be a public viewing of Michael Jackson's body at the Neverland Ranch, his family is now saying that is not the case.
In a statement released today by their new publicists, Sunshine, Sachs & Associates, the Jackson family says: "Contrary to previous news reports, the Jackson family is officially stating that there will be no public or private viewing at Neverland. Plans are underway regarding a public memorial for Michael Jackson, and we will announce those plans shortly."
Yesterday the Santa Barbara Sheriff's Department told E! News that plans were being discussed to hold a memorial service at Neverland for MJ.
"Our guys are meeting as we speak with the California Highway Patrol to discuss the security issues,” said Lt. Butch Arnoldi, a department spokesman.
"Our role will primarily be traffic, but also crowd control," adds Arnoldi. "We will also be making sure there is no trespassing on neighboring ranches and stuff like that. We would be stationed on the perimeter of the house. The actual roadway will be the responsibility of the CHP."
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TMZ reported today that a shipment of portable toilets had been dropped off at Neverland, ostensibly for some large public event.
