Continuance granted in trial of pharmacist

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- A federal judge has granted a continuance in the criminal trial of the Kansas City pharmacist accused of diluting chemotherapy drugs.

U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith on Friday ordered Courtney's trial delayed until Feb. 4. Courtney's lawyers asked for the delay, saying they needed more time to prepare. Prosecutors had objected and wanted an Oct. 1 trial date.

Courtney has pleaded innocent to 20 felony counts alleging that he tampered, misbranded and adulterated chemo-therapy drugs. He is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday to discuss scheduling and depositions in the case.

At least 52 civil lawsuits have been filed against Courtney in Jackson County Circuit Court.