By Liz Lape
PEORIA, Ill. – (25 News) – A Peoria man who allegedly shot a Peoria County Sheriff’s Office deputy earlier this year told the judge he wanted to represent himself during court on Thursday.
Larry Bell, 51, is accused of shooting Peoria County Deputy Jack Evans during a traffic stop on January 31.
On that date, Bell allegedly shot Evans twice near South Western Avenue. The shooting happened after Bell ran from the deputy, leading to a chase.
Peoria County Sheriff’s Office deputies said they found Bell hiding in an abandoned building nearby, recovered a handgun, and saw that Bell had methamphetamine.
He is charged with five felonies, including attempted murder, which could land him a life sentence if he is found guilty by a jury.
Bell has teetered between wanting a public defender and representing himself throughout the case.
He is scheduled to return to court Friday morning for a pre-trial hearing.
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