Trial of Michael Jackson's doctor postponed to Sept.
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Dr. Conrad Murray is shown during a hearing in Los Angeles in this April 5, 2010 file photograph. (Xinhua/Reuters File Photo)? |
A Los Angeles judge on Monday postponed the trial of Michael Jackson's personal physician until September at the request of defense, so as to allow for more time to fully prepare.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor made the decision after Conrad Murray's attorneys sought a two-week delay in the trial after unsuccessfully asking the judge to exclude two new prosecution witnesses who had recently turned over their reports.
The delay was "absolutely mandated," Pastor said, adding that this was in the "interest of justice...that the parties be fully prepared."
The prosecution did not object to the defense's request for a delay.
Murray, now 58, was charged on Feb. 8, 2010 with the felony of involuntary manslaughter stemming from Jackson's June 25, 2009 death in Los Angeles as the King of Pop was preparing for his upcoming series of comeback concerts in London. Jackson was ruled by the Los Angeles Coroner's Office as having died from an acute propofol intoxication.
Murray has proclaimed himself "an innocent man" at a Jan. 25 court appearance. If convicted, he may face up to four years behind bars.
The cardiologist, who had asked for a speedy trial invoking his right, agreed with the judge's decision. "I believe it's in the interests of all parties," he said.
