Suspect in 8 murders dissatisfied with attorneys

GALESBURG, Ill. _ A man suspected in a gruesome beating spree in June that left eight dead in Illinois and Missouri told a Knox County judge Thursday that he is not happy with his attorneys and is mentally fit to stand trial.

Nicholas Sheley asked to address Circuit Judge James Stewart during a status hearing. The 29-year-old said he's been "blown off" by his attorneys and accused them of "fast lawyer talk." As he read from a prepared statement, Sheley asked the judge if he had a say in legal decisions and if he is allowed his own copies of discovery documents.

Sheley also said a fitness hearing was not necessary because he is aware of the charges and what could happen to him. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in the death of 65-year-old Ronald Randall of Galesburg.

"I am fit. I have knowledge of the charges and consequences. I feel my social abilities are above more than normal," Sheley said.

Stewart told Sheley his only options are to hire a private attorney or to represent himself. He asked Sheley to draft a handwritten motion on how he wants to continue. After he gets it, the judge said he will schedule a hearing.

Sheley is charged with kidnapping Randall, hijacking his truck, stealing his wallet and killing him June 28. He is also charged in the June deaths of a 93-year-old man in Sterling and an Arkansas couple found dead in Jefferson County, Mo.

Police say Sheley is also suspected in the deaths of four people in a Rock Falls, Ill., apartment.