Another continuance has been granted in the federal case of Umel Motic Jackson as his attorney and the United States government attempt to reach a settlement short of trial, according to court documents. 

District Judge James C. Dever III signed an order today granting the extension, moving Jackson’s arraignment and trial to the September 2026 term of court. 

Beyond the settlement discussions, Jackson’s defense attorney, Melissa Hill, requested additional time due to the case’s complexity. 

State-level proceedings remain pending for multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill law enforcement officers.

The state charges stem from a May 2024 standoff between Jackson and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office in the 1000 block of Elm Street in Weldon. 

At the time, Jackson was on electronic monitoring for other crimes that remain pending in Halifax County. 

An administrative hearing on those state charges is scheduled for July 27 in Halifax County Superior Court. 

Hill noted in her motion that the parties are discussing a crime scene inspection in Halifax County and require more time to meet and review evidence. 

She also noted that she recently received a sealed report regarding a previously filed sealed motion. 

That report is tied to a letter from Dr. Moira Artigues, a forensic and general psychiatrist in Cary. 

A previous order noted the letter contains sensitive, confidential information that outweighs the public’s right of access.

A competency hearing for Jackson remains scheduled for June 29, according to court records.

Jackson was originally indicted federally in July 2024 for receiving a firearm while under indictment.