Trial delayed for man accused of fatally shooting Racine Officer John Hetland

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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The man accused of killing an off-duty police officer in Racine appeared in court Thursday, Jan. 23. 

New information was brought up that will delay Dalquavis Ward's trial.

In court Thursday, attorneys said there are police reports that were recently discovered that allegedly were never shared with them.

Dalquavis Ward appeared somber in court. He's facing felony counts of first degree intentional homicide with the use of a dangerous weapon, armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Ward is accused of fatally shooting Officer John Hetland on June 17 at Teezers Bar and Grill while trying to stop a robbery. Ward and Hetland got into a struggle when Hetland tried to stop the robbery. Ward allegedly shot the officer once before fleeing. Officer Hetland was off-duty at the time. 

DNA evidence collected at Teezers and from Officer Hetland's shirt tied Ward to the scene. 

In court, attorneys said they need time to process those reports in order to move forward with the trial.

"The late breaking discovery in this case caused this hearing to be held," said Kenosha County District Attorney Mike Graveley. "I believe that all parties can be ready on March 30."

Ward is facing life in prison. 

CBS 58 spoke to a member of the Racine Police Department who says they're disappointed that their pain and the pain of the family is being prolonged. 

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