Feds Join Investigation of Michael Jackson's Death

After unconfirmed reports that world-famous pop star Michael Jackson, who died June 25 at age 50, had been abusing prescription drugs, the DEA is working with the Los Angeles Police Department to determine how Jackson died, reported the Associated Press. According to BBC News, the LA County Coroner's office performed an autopsy that revealed foul play did not play a part in Jackson's death. The office conducted toxicology screenings but the results might not be in for weeks, reported the BBC.

According to the AP, the DEA was brought into the LAPD's investigation due to the resources and experience the administration can offer in probing drug abuse cases. The DEA investigation will likely examine the drugs Jackson's doctors prescribed; authorities have already scoured the pop star's house in LA for evidence of abuse, reported the AP. Rumors circulating Jackson say he was abusing anti-depressants, sedatives and painkillers prior to his death, according to the AP.

As police and DEA officials work to ascertain Jackson's cause of death, the city of Los Angeles prepared itself for a public memorial in honor of the King of Pop. According to the "Los Angeles Times," police are securing the area in and around LA's Staples Center for a service taking place Tuesday, July 7. The Jackson family has yet to comment on funeral services for Michael, though discussed arrangements at the palatial Neverland Ranch – Michael's vast mansion near Santa Barbara, which he bought at the height of his success – did not come to fruition, reported the "Times."