Michael Jackson Memorial Still Up in the Air

LAPD meets with family about possible locations, including Staples Center; Neverland remains likely destination

By Gina Serpe Jul 01, 2009 3:07 PMTags
Michael Jackson, Staples centerJed Jacobsohn/ Getty Images, Telegraph UK/ ZUMA Press

Never say Neverland.

While Michael Jackson's family said yesterday that no final decisions had been made on where or when a memorial would be held for the King of Pop, the evidence is mounting for at least one event to be held at Neverland Ranch.

An Los Angeles Police Department spokeswoman has confirmed that the Jackson family met with LAPD and California Highway Patrol representatives Tuesday afternoon to discuss possible funeral scenarios.

This, after the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department told E! News that the agency met with CHP officials to figure out what to do about any Neverland events. Neighbors of the rural ranch are already fearing miles-long traffic jams in the quiet community in the hills above Santa Barbara. Already fans have begun descending on the area, transforming the site into something of a Graceland West.

The involvement of the LAPD would be needed to handle the inevitable crush of mourners at a public memorial, or to augment the CHP as Jackson's body is transported.

The latest idea floated by the Jackson family is to hold a public ceremony at L.A.'s Staples Center, per the Los Angeles Times, with a procession from there to Neverland Ranch, where there would be a private funeral for friends, family and music industry heavies.

The family has not announced a timetable for any memorial, though sources have suggested it could take place Friday.

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