17 October 2011

Death in Family Delays Conrad Murray Trial

Death in Family Delays Conrad Murray Trial

A propofol expert scheduled to testify in the involuntary manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson's personal physician was unable to attend court Monday, prompting a postponement in the proceedings.

Conrad Murray Trial: Testimony Timeline, Who's Who, About Propofol

Dr. Steven Shafer testified briefly Thursday. He was scheduled to retake the stand Monday and further the prosecution's argument that Murray's alleged negligence with the drug was one of the missteps that led to Jackson's death.

But due to a death in the family, Shafer was unable to attend court Monday, said Superior Court spokeswoman Mary Hearn.

It is unknown when he will be able to resume testimony.

"The judge will get more information from the prosecution team as to when he can be back to take the stand," Hearn said.

Murray is accused of involuntary manslaughter in the 2009 death of the King of Pop.

Prosecutors contend that the 58-year-old Murray, a cardiologist, gave pop legend Jackson a fatal dose of the powerful sedative propofol, then left him unattended to make phone calls and send emails.

Defense attorneys say Murray left Jackson's side only for about two minutes to use the bathroom and insist that he was trying to wean the singer off propofol, which Jackson called his "milk" and used to combat insomnia.

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