'Jackson mistreated by police'

Michael Jackson's brother Jermaine has alleged the pop star was mistreated while in police custody.

Jermaine would not give specific details but told MSNBC television: "He was very much mistreated. The pictures will show you everything."

Santa Barbara Sheriff's Department, in California, which is investigating sex abuse claims against Jackson, 45, denied the claim.

A spokesman insisted the singer was treated "with courtesy and professionalism throughout the process" and no complaint had been made.

A spokesman for Jackson refused to comment on the allegation but said the star was "holding up fine". Jackson has denied molesting a teenage cancer sufferer at his Neverland ranch in California.

He surrendered after a warrant was issued for his arrest last month and was seen being led into the sheriff's office in handcuffs. His mugshot was later released to the media and Jackson was freed on £1.8 million bail.

Jackson's parents also come to their son's defence in an interview to be broadcast on ITV1 on Monday. Joe and Katherine Jackson said prosecutors were trying to "humiliate" their son.

"Some people are trying to accuse him of being a paedophile and that is not true. And they need to stop," Mrs Jackson said. She said those people accusing her son were "wicked".

The couple pledged to adopt Jackson's three children if they are taken away from him.

Mr Jackson told the documentary Our Son Michael Jackson: "We're not going to let nobody take those kids. They're Michael's kids. They have no right to take those kids."

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