The defense attorney for a man accused of driving onto Arkansas State University in Jonesboro with a loaded shotgun is seeking a new venue for his trial.
Attorney Chet Dunlap told the Jonesboro Sun Monday it would be tough to find a jury who is not connected to the university to grant Brad Bartelt a fair trial. Dunlap has requested to move Bartelt’s trial to another venue in the 2nd Judicial District.
Bartelt was arrestedin early December after triggering an active shooter alert on campus. He surrendered to law enforcement and was charged with first degree terroristic threatening, making a terroristic threat, and criminal possession of explosive material or a destructive device.
Bartelt faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted. Circuit Judge Tommy Fowler has refused Dunlap’s request, but will reconsider it if the jury selection becomes difficult.
Bartelt’s trial is set for April 18.
