Citronelle's former police chief accepted a deal and pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge in federal court Thursday. After two mistrials on the excess force case, he was facing a third trial that was set to start on Monday.

"I look forward to some closure in this situation," said Norris. "I'm ready to move on with my life and quit spending my money on defense and wasting everybody's time and effort."

Norris was indicted on witness tampering and deprivation of rights under color of law felony charges last September. Prosecutors argued he used excessive force and injured a suspect after a high speed chase. Defense attorney Jeff Deen says the chase through town during rush hour exceeded speeds of 100 miles per hour and caused emotions to run high.

"The chief reacted to the situation as he perceived it, didn't realize that some of his other officers were doing things like handcuffing the fella inside the car. So he perceived the guy was resisting and was a little rough about getting him out of the car and that caused some discomfort for the young man. We believe it was within the proper police procedure, but looking at the videotapes, and maybe the spur of the moment caused him to react a little bit overboard," said Deen.

Norris pleaded guilty to the lesser included misdemeanor civil rights violation, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison. A judge will sentence him on September 8th. Deen says the government is not opposed to probation and that's what they anticipate the punishment will be.

"I don't see any reason why he would not he doesn't have a record. Exemplary citizen. And he made a misstep once in his life. I don't see why the judge is hammering no injuries involved," said Deen.

Norris is also accused of assault 3rd in state court, and the district attorney's office confirms it is also working on a plea deal with Norris.