Michael Jackson trial delayed until September

The trial of Dr Conrad Murray over the death of Michael Jackson has been delayed until September, it has been announced.

Murray is to appear before a court to defend himself over a count of involuntary manslaughter, following his reported administration of anaesthetic propofol and other sedatives to Jackson on June 26, 2009.

The opening statement by Murray had been expected to take place on May 9, but now a Los Angeles judge for the case has agreed to delay the trial until September, following a request by Murray's legal team for more time to gather and prepare further medical expertise and evidence.

A judge has granted permission for photographs of Jackson's dead body to be used in the trial.

Murray's defence lawyer Edward Chernoff recently requested copies of Jackson's financial records, insinuating that the late popstar had committed suicide due to money issues.

A new date for the opening statements has yet to be confirmed.