The trial for Joran van der Sloot, the prime suspect in the 2005 disappearance of Natalee Holloway, has been delayed until the fall. A federal judge granted the postponement on Tuesday after van der Sloot waived his right to a speedy trial. He faces charges of extortion and wire fraud in the United States for allegedly attempting to extort money from Natalee's mother, Beth Holloway, in exchange for information about her daughter's remains.

Van der Sloot, a Dutch national, allegedly requested $250,000 from Beth Holloway – an initial $25,000 followed by the remaining amount upon positive identification of Natalee's body. Prosecutors contend that van der Sloot provided false information to Holloway's lawyer regarding the location of her remains. He pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment on June 9th.

The alleged extortion scheme transpired between March 29 and May 17, 2010. Van der Sloot was temporarily extradited from a Peruvian prison to U.S. custody on June 8th. He appeared confident and smirked throughout his arraignment, while Beth Holloway remained focused on him. U.S. Magistrate Judge Gray Borden extended the deadline for pretrial motions to September 11th, with the trial date to be determined later by a federal judge.

Judge Borden explained that the extension was granted to allow the defendant sufficient time to prepare his defense and decide whether to plead guilty or proceed to trial. This consideration, the judge stated, outweighs the public's and defendant's interest in a speedy trial.

Following the court appearance, Beth Holloway expressed relief that the "wheels of justice" were finally turning and that her family was getting their day in court. She expressed confidence in the U.S. Attorney's office securing a conviction and gratitude for their diligent work on the case.

Beth Holloway reflected on the 18 years that have passed since her daughter's disappearance, noting that Natalee would have been 36 years old. She emphasized the long and painful journey her family has endured and their hope for justice.