Darren Sharper co-defendant may strike plea deal as jury selection begins

One of two co-defendants in the drug and sexual assault case that took down former Saints star Darren Sharper is in the process of entering a guilty plea in New Orleans federal court as part of a deal, an official confirmed Monday morning.

Erik Nunez has reportedly agreed to spend 10 years in prison, but that is pending the finalization of the plea deal, the official said.

Nunez, a former restaurant waiter and local entertainment promoter, entered his plea as jury selection in the federal trial against him and ex-St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy Brandon Licciardi was set to start Monday.

If Licciardi proceeds, after a jury is seated, the trial will recess until opening arguments begin Friday and could last 10 days.

Sharper, who faces up to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty in New Orleans federal court last year, is expected to testify if the trial moves forward.

Check back with The New Orleans Advocate later for more details.

This story was originally published July 11, 2016 at 10:15 AM with the headline "Darren Sharper co-defendant may strike plea deal as jury selection begins."