Networks Race to Cover Verdict in Conrad Murray Trial

Networks received two hours' notice for the conclusion of Dr. Conrad Murray's trial over criminal negligence in the 2009 death of Michael Jackson. Early in their second day of deliberation, CNN reports the jury buzzed three times, signaling a verdict had been reached after approximately nine hours. PHOTOS: 10 TV Trials That Shook the World: Casey Anthony, OJ Simpson, Rodney King Word came at 10:56 a.m. PT, with a formal announcement expected for 1:00 p.m. The networks responded by announcing plans for coverage. ABC News announced it will break into daytime coverage with live reports from the NY headquarters. Diane Sawyer will anchor, joined by legal analyst Dan Abrams in the studio and reporter Jim Avila live from the Los Angeles courthouse. Scott Pelly breaks in for CBS News, with NBC broadcasting Harry Smith in NY and Jeff Rossen outside the court with former Jackson lawyer Tom Mesereau. CNN International will simulcast the US broadcast from 12:30 p.m. PT, cutting into CNN Newsroom for advanced coverage and breaking to The Situation Room and Wolf Blitzer for the 1:00 p.m. verdict. Related Topics Michael Jackson Conrad Murray