TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Mohamed's New Attorneys Seek Postponement Of Trial

ADVERTISEMENT

By THOMAS W.  KRAUSE | The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 12, 2008

TAMPA - A former University of South Florida student, facing federal charges that he helped terrorists, got two new lawyers today but he might not get to postpone the trial scheduled for next month.

Last month, Ahmed Mohamed gave a long rant in open court where he accused his attorney, John Fitzgibbons, of providing shoddy legal help for big bucks. He also accused a high-ranking Egyptian government official of stealing money earmarked for his defense.

Fitzgibbons said Mohammed was an exceptionally difficult client. Egyptian officials contacted by The Tampa Tribune said no money is missing.

Today, lawyers Linda Moreno and Lyann Goudie announced that they would represent Mohammed instead. Moreno previously represented former USF professor Sami Al-Arian. Goudie was one of several attorneys who represented actor Wesley Snipes in his recent tax evasion trial.

In court today, Moreno asked federal Magistrate Mark Pizzo if he would postpone the March trial date to give her time to catch up. Pizzo asked her to put the request in writing and said the decision would be up to U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday. He also said Mohamed was told in January that the trial date was approaching quickly and new legal representation would not necessarily be grounds for postponement.

Reporter Thomas W. Krause can be reached at (813) 259-7698 or tkrause@tampatrib.com.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT