NEWSMAKERS | Jackson doctor’s trial is delayed

NEWSMAKERS

Jackson doctor’s trial is delayed

LOS ANGELES

The trial of the doctor charged in Michael Jackson’s death has been delayed until September.

Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor on Monday put off opening statements that had been set for next week and says he will release potential jurors who have started the screening process.

Pastor now says jury selection will begin Sept. 8, and opening statements will begin later that month.

Attorneys for Dr. Conrad Murray asked to delay the trial to prepare for new prosecution experts expected to be called as witnesses. Murray had been seeking a speedy trial but has waived that right to allow his attorneys to prepare for the experts.

Pastor says the need for fundamental fairness requires a delay.

Murray has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter.

‘Judge Judy’ show gets multiyear deal

LOS ANGELES

Television’s “Judge Judy” is keeping her hand firmly on the gavel through 2015.

Judy Sheindlin signed a new multiyear deal to stay with the long-running syndicated program that last season ranked No. 1 in daytime, CBS Television Distribution said Monday.

“I am thrilled with the opportunity to continue this exciting second career,” Sheindlin, 68, said in a statement.

A former judge in New York, the tart-tongued Sheindlin presides over small-claims cases on her program that’s in its 15th season.

“Judge Judy” had been renewed until 2013 before the new agreement was reached. The deal comes as Oprah Winfrey prepares to wrap up her talk show after 25 years, leaving Sheindlin and other daytime stars to jockey for position. Winfrey’s cable channel, OWN, launched in January.

Charlie Sheen tours tornado damage

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.

Actor Charlie Sheen says he is organizing a relief event for tornado victims in Alabama.

After a tour of the decimated Alberta neighborhood in Tuscaloosa, Sheen told The Associated Press on Monday he was working with local officials to organize a benefit. He said a date has not been set.

Sheen says he wants to give the area “money, hope, faith and healing.” The former “Two and a Half Men” star says he is shocked by the extent of the damage.

Sheen was planning to spend the day in Tuscaloosa meeting with residents and first responders. He posed for photographs with police officers and National Guard soldiers.

He was traveling with one of his so-called “goddesses” and former major- league baseball player Todd Zeile.

Vindicator wire services