Joe Jackson suspects Michael 'foul play'

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Joe Jackson refused to reveal any details about his concerns, but admitted he was struggling to come to terms with the suddenness of Michael's passing last week.

He said: "Michael was dead before he left the house. I'm suspecting foul play somewhere. He was waving to everybody and telling them he loves them and all the fans at the gate. A few minutes after Michael was out there, he was dead."

Michael died of a suspected cardiac arrest at the Los Angeles home he rented.

An autopsy has indicated no signs of trauma or foul play, but toxicology tests are not expected to come back for four to six weeks. The Jackson family have ordered a second autopsy, and are believed to be keen for police to start a criminal investigation.

Joe claimed the family are yet to decide on the funeral arrangements for Michael, although it has been reported it could take place as soon as Wednesday (01.07.09).

He also confirmed he and his wife Katherine are caring for Michael's three children, Prince Michael, 12, Paris, 11, and seven-year-old Prince Michael II, adding the kids are his "first priority".

The Case Sensitive Unit at the Los Angeles County Department of Child and Family Services visited the children on Friday (26.06.09) to discuss who will be caring for them.

Reports have suggested Michael's ex-wife Debbie Rowe - the mother of his two eldest children - may seek custody, but would need to be thoroughly vetted before any action takes place.

A source said: "This is listed as a 'Caretaker Absence' situation and we are highly sensitised to such a high-profile case. You can't just become a parent - how much contact has Rowe had with the kids? Criminal checks, dietary and immunisation checks will all be done."

Despite Joe's claims his son was in good shape prior to his death, leaked autopsy reports suggest he was frail and almost bald.

The pop legend reportedly weighed just 51kg when he passed away, and his stomach was empty except for partially-dissolved prescription pills.