(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Conrad Murray is being treated "like a piece of veal" in prison, claims his lawyer.

The doctor is currently serving a four-year sentence at the Los Angeles County Jail after being convicted of the involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson.

Yesterday, it was reported he had been taken to hospital earlier this week after fearing he had blood clots in his legs. It was also alleged the 6ft. 5ins. physician was not able to exercise properly. His lawyer has now written to jail officials asking for action and slamming the 5ft. 7ins. cell Murray is living in.

"He's being housed like a piece of veal," attorney Michael Flanagan told New York Daily News. "He can't even do jumping jacks in his cell. The bed takes up three feet, and there's a toilet in there too. It's awful what they're doing to him.

"Anybody who watched the [involuntary manslaughter] trial that ended almost a year ago, they wouldn't recognise him walking on the street today. His hair has turned grey. He's down 20 or 30 pounds. He's very gaunt-looking and has a hard time walking."

It has been claimed Murray is only allowed to exercise for two hours a week, with that taking place in a "cage" on the roof.

Sheriff's department spokeswoman Nicole Nishida has responded to the allegations. She insists Murray's cell is no different to other inmates and that his fears are being listened to.

"He's not dying in jail," she said. "People over at the jail did speak with him and he's alive and receiving proper medical treatment. He's receiving really good treatment in fact. He has some issues and concerns, and we're working with him."

In the legal letter, it's suggested Murray has symptoms which could signal deep vein thrombosis. (C) Cover Media