Jackson’s costumes

Booth MOORE seemed to express surprise at Michael Jackson’s court attire, referring to several outfits as “costumes” [“Style: Indefensible?” April 18]. But that’s exactly what his attorney no doubt has requested that Michael wear. It’s a brilliant defense to a crime that requires specific intent.

If Michael were to dress conservatively, the jury would see him as a dirty old man surrounding himself with children with the intent to molest them. But in costumes, even bright-colored pajamas, he is what he has always been: a person with an arrested development, stuck in childhood, when all his acts are innocent.

And when the jury acquits him for lack of intent, his attorney will be laughing up one of those costumed sleeves.

Arthur Gottlieb

Long Beach