The case against the former Charlottesville television meteorologist accused of extorting men for sex appeared close to collapsing Thursday. While the prosecution of Josh Fitzpatrick was dropped, or "nol prossed," in Albemarle County General District Court, it could soon reemerge in circuit court.

"Could this case be made to a grand jury?" asked Judge Matthew Quatrara.

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"Of course, your honor," replied Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Lawton Tufts.

With that, the judge approved Tufts' motion to temporarily halt the case to give the prosecution more time to compile its evidence.

The move set Fitzpatrick free. Earlier he had been jailed then freed on a bail condition of living with his mother near Gallipolis, Ohio, and staying

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