Plea hearing set in federal court for former Seminole County Tax Collector

ORLANDO, Fla. — A plea hearing for former Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg has been set for May 17.

Greenberg, who remains behind bars after being arrested for violating his bond conditions in February, is expected to appear in federal court in Orlando at 10 a.m.

Greenberg’s attorney Fritz Scheller told a judge in April that a possible plea deal was in the works.

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

When asked by reporters after the April 8 hearing if the deal was in exchange for turning over state 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.

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

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

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

READ: Federal investigation into Greenberg possibly tied to Gaetz probe

“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.

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

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

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

WFTV