Jackson manslaughter trial postponed

LOS ANGELES, May 2 (UPI) -- The trial of Conrad Murray, the cardiologist charged in the death of pop star Michael Jackson, won't start in Los Angeles until September, officials said.

Murray has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in the 50-year-old singer's 2009 death.

An autopsy found lethal levels of the anesthesia propofol and sedatives in Jackson's system.

Murray is accused of administering the drugs in the star's home to help him sleep.

At a hearing Monday morning, Judge Michael Pastor granted a request from Murray's lawyers to delay the trial. The attorneys said they need more time to prepare for new witnesses expected to be called by the prosecution, TMZ reported.

Opening statements were set to begin May 9.