EL PASO, Texas -- Judge Manuel Barraza was in a federal court Monday supposed to face his current fraud charges, however his defense was granted a trial continuance.

Barraza’s attorney, Mervin Mosbacker, told the federal judge that new evidence was revealed by the U.S. attorney’s office just over a week ago. Mosbacker claimed he did not have enough time to investigate the evidence in time for Monday’s scheduled trial.

Mosbacker claimed that new information was revealed to him that called into question the reliability of an informant involved in the case.

“We have the opportunity to defend ourselves,” said Barraza, while exiting the courthouse. “It was pretty evident that we didn’t have enough (time).”

“We’re gratified that the court is giving us more time to prepare for this case. It’s a very serious case,” Mosbacker said.

Representatives with the U.S. attorney’s office declined comment while exiting the court.

The case has been rescheduled for Jan. 19 of next year.