Stop The Presses!

Drugged Recording, Graphic Images of Michael Jackson Revealed in Court

And so it begins.

Prosecutors delivered their opening statements in the involuntary manslaughter trial against Dr. Conrad Murray Tuesday, arguing that Michael Jackson died due to "gross negligence and incompetence" by his personal doctor.

The prosecution -- who displayed a graphic image of Jackson's dead
body on a gurney -- alleged that Murray repeatedly over-sedated Jackson
with the powerful anesthetic propofol. Murray, 58, is being charged with
involuntary manslaughter.

VIDEO: Michael's mom opens up about her son's tragic passing

The prosecution also alleged that Murray administered propofol on
the day of Jackson's death -- and left him unattended for 45 minutes
while he took a phone call.

To show the effects of the anesthetic that Murray administered to help Jackson sleep, Deputy District Attorney David Walgren
played the recording Murray made on his iPhone six weeks before Jackson
died of a overdose at the age of 50. The tape features the superstar
discussing his upcoming concert while under the influence of the drug.

PHOTOS: Michael and his kids

"When people leave my show, I want them to say, 'I've never seen
nothing like this in my life,'" Jackson said in a slow, slurred voice.
"Go. Go. I've never seen nothing like this. Go. It's amazing. He's the
greatest entertainer in the world."

PHOTOS: Michael's most unforgettable moments

Jackson's family members quietly sat in the courtroom as the opening statements were made. Michael's mother, Katherine, was seen repeatedly dabbing her eyes with a tissue. La Toya took to her twitter, demanding "Justice!"

Photo credit: Al Seib-Pool/Getty; Dave M. Bennett/Getty, Us Magazine

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Listen to Jackson's call with Murray:

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