BUTLER, PA-Accused area arsonist Jonathan Young is still undergoing a series of mental evaluations, representing one of the factors which could delay or even bypass a trial.
Assistant Public Defender Joseph L. Smith, who’s representing Young, told WNYNewsNow Wednesday in his office that a plea deal is in the works.
“Right now, we (Smith and the District Attorney’s Office) are negotiating a plea deal,” Smith said.
Smith said he and Young decided to forego a scheduled judicial conference.
Smith said he filed a motion of discovery Tuesday, meaning he’ll have more time to prepare for a trial by reviewing the Commonwealth’s evidence in his case for a nearby Slippery Rock arson.
Young’s jury selection will occur as scheduled on August 17th and 18th. Smith said he doesn’t expect a trial to start until at least September, and that’s if Young decides to stand trial (if motion of insanity is denied).
The teen is also accused of setting 12 separate fires in the Jamestown/Falconer area in March. He additionally faces charges in Warren County.