SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Attorneys in the case of an Adams man accused of violating federal terrorism statutes say they are still communicating about a possible plea deal but told the judge to anticipate using the scheduled June 18 trial date.

 

Judge Mark G. Mastroianni on Wednesday held a brief status conference in the case of the United States v. Alexander Ciccolo, who was arrested on July 4, 2015, and subsequently indicted on one count of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and one count of attempting to use of weapons of mass destruction.

 

On Wednesday, Ciccolo's attorney, David Hoose of Northampton, told Mastroianni that he continues to discuss a plea in the case with the U.S. Attorney.

 

"I think all I can say is we're continuing to communicate and explore a possible resolution," Hoose said. "But it's our mutual suggestion the court assume it's going to go to trial on the date selected."

 

Mastroianni asked the attorneys to submit to him suggested questions for a questionnaire that will be sent out to prospective jurors.

 

"I imagine we'll be using a larger pool than usual," Mastroianni said, and he suggested that a confidential survey completed and returned by mail could help narrow the pool before selection begins in court.

 

He also asked the attorneys to keep him apprised of any potential deals in the case.

 

"It goes without saying that if there is any development in the case that would short-circuit a trial, bring that to my attention," Mastroianni said. "There is some added level of work with the clerk's office in arranging such a large number of jurors to come in.

 

"Other than that … I'm looking forward to the trial."