Lawyer For Teen Accused In Michael Brewer Attack Wants Trial Moved

FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami/AP) – An attorney for Matthew bent, the alleged ringleader in the 2009 fiery attack on Michael Brewer, has filed a motion for a change of venue for trial because of heavy local media coverage.

Bent's attorney Gordon Weekes suggested in a court filing Tuesday that the trial be held in Jacksonville. As an alternative, he said jurors could be chosen in Jacksonville and then brought to Fort Lauderdale for the trial.

Bent, 17, is charged with attempted second-degree murder in the attack on Brewer, who was doused with rubbing alcohol and set ablaze.

Last month, two other teens who were charged in the case, 19-year old Jesus Mendez and 18-year old Denver Jarvis, pled no contest to attempted second degree murder.

Mendez, who was accused of flicking the lighter, was sentenced to 11 years in prison, one year of community control and 18 years probation. Jarvis, who was accused of pouring the liquid on Brewer, was sentenced to eight years in prison, one year of community of control and 21 years of probation.

Bent faces up to 30 years if convicted.

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