Sheley dissatisfied with lawyers

GALESBURG - A Sterling 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." Reading from a written statement, Sheley told the court he was concerned about how his case was being handled. "I am not looking for advice or sympathy," he said. "I have questions in regards to the law and my understanding my rights." Sheley asked the judge whether he had a say in legal decisions and whether he is allowed his own co