Jacksonville terrorism suspect could get plea deal

A plea deal could be in the works for the Jacksonville man facing terrorism related charges.

Shelton Bell’s attorney was granted a 60 day continuance in federal court today. When asked her reason for the continuance, his attorney told the judge that after processing a recent round of discovery, she needed more time to look in to plea options.

The US Government had no opposition to the continuance.

The next status hearing will be February 18 and, at that time, the attorneys involved say they should have a realistic timeline on how to move forward.

Bell has been indicted for allegedly supporting terrorists overseas. The indictment obtained by WOKV alleges Bell trained locally in support of what he called a violent “jihad” overseas. Investigators say he also traveled overseas in an effort to join a terrorist organization.

If the case move to trial, it is now slated to begin March 3.