Lawyers for indicted CEO Burrell Ellis filed a formal motion Thursday, asking that his corruption trial be delayed from its Aug. 19 start.
Ellis’ team had previously requested a “reconsideration” of Judge Courtney L. Johnson’s aggressive schedule. She was scheduled to hear arguments on that request Friday, though it was unclear how she would rule.
Legal experts said Johnson is more likely to approve the more formal request for a continuance, as defendants have the right to ask for more time to prepare for trial. That and other issues will be in Friday’s hearing.
Ellis is facing a 15-count indictment on charges of attempted extortion, theft and conspiracy. He is accused to pressuring county vendors to contribute to his re-election campaign and, in three cases, threatening those who declined.
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