Michael Jackson claims former associate concealed funds

A former associate who is suing Michael Jackson for more than $3 million (Ђ2.5 million) has been accused by the entertainer of concealing and misappropriating funds.

Jackson filed the cross-complaint against Marc Schaffel in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Oct. 18, his lawyer Brent Ayscough said Wednesday.

Schaffel filed the original lawsuit in November, claiming Jackson owed him $800,000 (Ђ663,405) for producing two 2003 television specials and $2.3 million (Ђ1.9 million) for payments and loans made to the entertainer over the past three years.

In the latest court filing, Jackson says Schaffel failed to pay costs related to the production of the Jackson song "What More Can I Give?" He also continued to represent himself as affiliated with Jackson after their business arrangement ended, the cross-complaint said.

Jackson also claims Schaffel kept $250,000 (Ђ206,100) in sculptures and paintings belonging to the singer.

Ayscough said Schaffel has tried to get a lien placed on Jackson's Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara County.

Schaffel's lawyer Howard King dismissed the entertainer's accusation, calling it "another ridiculous claim.", AP reported. V.A.