Although prosecutors offered former Nittany Lion Chris Bell a probationary sentence in connection with his April altercation with a teammate, a Centre County judge wants to investigate if his use of a deadly weapon merits stricter punishment.
Centre County Judge Bradley Lunsford refused to accept the plea agreement this morning and has asked the attorneys to explore whether Bell's use of an 8-inch cooking knife calls for possible jail time.
Bell pleaded guilty in July to one count of terroristic threats, a first-degree misdemeanor. Prosecutor Nathan Boob said the charge normally leads to probation, but if Lunsford finds Bell's use of the knife elevates the standards for his sentencing, the former wide Penn State receiver could face up to five years in prison.
Dressed in black pants and a gray T-shirt, Bell, did not speak during his hearing.
"We've just been put in a situation where we need to do some research," said Anthony De Boef, Bell's attorney.
On April 7, Bell and teammate Devon Still began arguing about a cell phone cover when Bell pulled a knife out of his sleeve, police said. Bell was subsequently expelled from Penn State and has since enrolled at Norfolk State University in his native Virginia.
Bell's next court appearance is Sept. 25 for a review of the findings.
