Jackson Clan Demands 2nd Autopsy

(NEWSER) - A judge signed off today on last week’s unofficial custody arrangement for Michael Jackson’s children, appointing Katherine Jackson as the permanent guardian of all three, the AP reports. Jackson’s mother, 79, was the first choice given in his will to raise the children, and is the only person to formally petition for custody. Paris and Prince reportedly signed statements saying they wished to remain with their grandmother. More»

Plus, investigation turns criminal, doctor flees California

(NEWSER) - Let the Michael Jackson lawsuits begin. Ex-wife Debbie Rowe filed a defamation suit against Rebecca White, Radar reports. White who claimed to be a friend of Rowe's, publicized an e-mail in which she said Rowe wrote, “Do I want the kids? Hell no.” Rowe denies being friends with White and writing the e-mail—and White has been accused of fabricating stories before. More: More»

(NEWSER) - Janet Jackson has become Michael Jackson kids' key caregiver in the weeks since their father's death and that's how the four of them want it to stay, sources tell OK! "Janet has completely bonded with those children in the last two weeks,” said a family friend. “She has been their rock. It’s clear to everyone that they are looking to her for comfort and guidance.” More»

(NEWSER) - Though it’s not yet official, the Los Angeles Police Department is treating Michael Jackson’s death as a homicide, law enforcement sources tell TMZ. The anesthetic Propofol looks to be the primary cause of death, and police are focusing on Dr. Conrad Murray as the person who likely administered the drug. More:

• The Jackson family confronted the singer about his prescription drug addiction, brother Tito tells the Mirror. “We went into one of his private rooms and had a discussion with him. Some of us were crying,” he says, but Michael denied using.

(NEWSER) - The grandma and baby mama of Michael Jackson's three kids have secured another custody hearing delay, hoping to reach an agreement on their own, E! Online reports. Grandma Katherine Jackson will retain custody of Prince Michael I, 12, Paris, 11, and Prince Michael II, 7, until the newly scheduled hearing on July 20. A conference call with mom Debbie Rowe is planned for July 17. More»