A former associate who is suing Michael Jackson for more than $3 million US 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. The original lawsuit was filed in November and claimed that Jackson owes Schaffel $800,000 US for producing two 2003 television specials and $2.3 million US for payments and loans made to the entertainer over the past three years.

In the latest filing, Jackson said 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, according to the complaint.

Jackson also alleged Schaffel kept $250,000 US 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, Calif.

Schaffel’s lawyer Howard King dismissed the accusation, calling it “another ridiculous claim.”

Source: Associated Press