MIKE ELIASON/NEWS-PRESS
Fans got what they wanted when Michael Jackson left the courthouse in Santa Maria — a look at the pop star.




RAFAEL MALDONADO/NEWS-PRESS
Fans celebrate as their idol leaves court.

RAFAEL MALDONADO/NEWS-PRESS
Zealous fans race along the shoulder of Highway 101, trying to get a glimpse of their hero, as the Jackson caravan makes its way down the highway following the singer's court appearance in Santa Maria.

"I want to thank the community
of Santa Maria. I want you to
know that I love the community of
Santa Maria very much. It's my community. I love the people. I will always love the people."

— Michael Jackson, in a statement after his arraignment

RAFAEL MALDONADO/NEWS-PRESS
Joe Jackson, waves to fans after arriving at court for his famous son's arraignment.

MIKE ELIASON/NEWS-PRESS
A bodyguard provides shade for Michael Jackson during a stopover at a Head Start center, near the location where the singer switched from an SUV to a motor home following his arraignment in Santa Maria on Friday morning.

RAFAEL MALDONADO/NEWS-PRESS
Ilse Vazquez, 13, enjoys a piece of pizza courtesy of Michael Jackson at Antonio's in Buellton.