Attorney for ex-Seminole County tax collector says plea deal in the works

ORLANDO, Fla. — Attorneys for former Seminole County tax collector Joel Greenberg told a federal judge they may reach a plea deal in the case.

At a hearing in Orlando on Thursday, Greenberg’s attorney Fritz Scheller told the judge they hope to have a plea deal worked out by May 15.

If both sides cannot reach a deal by then, the trial would begin in July.

READ: New documents detail deputy run-ins with former Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg

When asked by reporters after the hearing if the deal was in exchange for turning over state’s evidence against other individuals, Scheller stopped short of responding, citing attorney-client privilege.

“To answer your question about cooperation: One, is there a plea agreement, and number two, is there cooperation provision; and the reason the cooperation provision is critical in the middle district of Florida is that it is not discretionary. If someone signs a cooperation agreement, they are required to cooperate,” he said.

Scheller said the deal has been in the works for quite some time.

READ: Former Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg faces new charges related to pandemic loans

Asked about the possibility of testifying against longtime friend Congressman Matt Gaetz, Scheller said the Congressman may not be too comfortable.

“You have seen the number of stories and the emphasis in the last few days is on (the) Matt Gaetz (and) Joel Greenberg relationship. It is obvious to assume he should be concerned,” Scheller said.

READ: Federal investigation into Greenberg possibly tied to Gaetz probe

Greenberg, who remains behind bars after being arrested for violating his bond conditions in February, was not in court.

Stay tuned to Channel 9 Eyewitness News for updates on this developing story.

VIDEO: New documents detail deputy run-ins with former Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg