A child sex trafficking lawsuit filed against the estate of Michael Jackson has been dismissed by a federal court. The legal action, brought by four siblings—Edward, Dominic, Marie-Nicole, and Aldo Cascio—alleged that the late pop icon had subjected them to abuse over a period exceeding a decade.
The Cascio family, who famously referred to themselves as Jackson’s “second family” during their youth, had previously defended the singer against similar allegations. However, following the 2019 release of the HBO documentary Leaving Neverland, the siblings claimed they had been “deprogrammed” and subsequently brought forward their own accusations of sexual abuse.
Legal Ruling on Arbitration
Judge Hernán D. Vera ruled that the case could not proceed in a public courtroom. The decision hinges on a 2019 settlement agreement between the Cascio family and the Jackson estate, which mandates that all related disputes must be resolved through confidential arbitration. In his ruling, Judge Vera acknowledged the gravity of the claims, stating, “Although the allegations are horrific, the court is without discretion to do aught but enforce the language of the arbitration clause.”
The estate of Michael Jackson has consistently denied all allegations of misconduct. Martin Singer, a lawyer representing the estate, characterized the lawsuit as a “desperate money grab,” noting that the family had staunchly defended Jackson for over 25 years before changing their stance.
Future Legal Proceedings
The siblings' attorney, Howard King, expressed disappointment with the ruling, stating that the family had hoped for a public trial to address the alleged abuse and subsequent cover-up. Despite the dismissal, the legal battle is expected to continue in private, with the family seeking to challenge the enforceability of the previous settlement agreement before an arbitrator.
This ruling follows a series of ongoing legal challenges surrounding the late singer's legacy. Earlier this year, a separate judge ruled that a similar settlement agreement signed by a fifth sibling, Frank Cascio, also required mandatory arbitration. Meanwhile, other high-profile cases, including those involving James Safechuck and Wade Robson, continue to move through the court system, with new trial dates set for 2028.
For more help, advice or more information regarding sexual harassment, assault and rape in the UK, visit the Rape Crisis charity website. In the US, visit RAINN.