San Diego

The murder trial of a Spring Valley man charged in the slayings of two San Diego police officers has been delayed until July 16 after his attorney argued he needed more time to prepare his case, which could last nine months. Defense attorney John Cotsirilos was granted the delay Wednesday by San Diego Superior Court Judge Barbara Gamer. Cotsirilos’ client, Joselito Cinco, 25, is charged in the shooting to deaths of officers Kimberly Tonahill, 24, and Timothy Ruopp, 31. The counts against Cinco include special circumstances, meaning he could receive the death penalty if he is convicted. The officers were slain Sept. 14 in Balboa Park after they came upon some underage girls who were drinking with Cinco and his companion, Victor Casillas, 26. Casillas was also arrested, but not charged.