NEWS

Jackson death trial delayed

3rd May 2011

(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Dr. Conrad Murrays involuntary manslaughter trial has been postponed until September.

Murray was Michael Jacksons personal physician at the time of his death in June 2009. He has been accused of being involved with his death, which he denies.

Following a preliminary hearing in January, it was decided Murray would stand trial beginning next week.

However, his legal team has requested more time to help them get ready for prosecution witnesses. They argued the last minute addition of some experts meant they needed to look for other suitable witnesses of their own.

Although Murrays lawyers had only asked for two more weeks, Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor doubted that would be long enough for them to prepare adequately.

The court is very mindful of judicial efficiency and the expense that has occurred in this case," he said. "But first and foremost is justice... the continuance in this case is absolutely essential.

A jury had already been chosen but will now be let go. A new set of jurors will be picked on September 8, with the trial set to begin on September 20.

Murray had previously insisted he wanted his trial to take place quickly, but said it court he now realised it made sense for it to happen later.

Jackson died of acute Propofol intoxication by intravenous injection of another. Propofol is a powerful anaesthetic usually given to surgery patients to help them sleep.

Murray has admitted giving Jackson some of the drug, but insists it wasnt enough to kill him. His team are said to be planning to argue Jackson administered the fatal dose to himself.

During the preliminary hearing the court was told Murray had admitted to police he felt under pressure by Jackson to give him Propofol which he apparently took to help him sleep. It was also alleged Murray took several phone calls when he should have been caring for Jackson, meaning he was distracted. He is also accused of failing to summon emergency services immediately after discovering the singer was ill. (C) Cover Media

Tags: