Michael Jackson Breaks Silence, Gives Thanks

By Stephen M. Silverman

Monday June 27, 2005 08:00 AM EDT

Michael Jackson

Michael Mariant/AP

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Finally breaking his public silence since his June 13 acquittal on all 10 counts in his child-molestation case, Michael Jackson has posted a message on his official Web site in which he says that his family, fans and God helped him through his four-month trial.

"Your love, support and loyalty made it all possible. You were there when I really needed you. I will never forget you," says the statement, which went up on Sunday.

"Your ever-present love held me, dried my tears, and carried me through. I will treasure your devotion and support forever. You are my inspiration." It is signed, "Love, Michael Jackson."

Last week, Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson, told NBC's Today that when the words "not guilty" were announced in the courtroom, "I just hugged (Michael) and cried and he hugged me. And I said, 'At last they saw the truth.'"

She maintains that her 46-year-old son is 100 percent innocent. As for those who might not agree with her, she said: "Some people believe what they want to believe. I can't stop that."