The News & Observer of Raleigh reports Uriel Alberto of Winston-Salem on Monday entered an Alford plea, acknowledging enough evidence to convict him but not admitting guilt. Alberto then appealed the verdict, giving the 25-year-old a chance for a Superior Court trial that could be weeks or months away.

 

Alberto was one of three undocumented immigrants arrested in February for interrupting a legislative hearing on immigration. Alberto told the panel he would not be bullied or intimidated by the committee.

 

Alberto's parents brought him to North Carolina 17 years ago, and several brushes with the law could lead to his deportation.