Ariel Castro — the Ohio man accused of kidnapping, raping, and holding three women hostage in his home for more than 10 years — is in talks to strike a plea deal, according to his defense attorney.

"We're in the middle of plea negotiating, that's where we're at," Castro's attorney said today. The talks apparently hinge on the death penalty, which Castro could face under the 977 counts he has been charged with. Castro pleaded not guilty this month.

According to the AP, the prosecutor "has that issue under review."

[AP, image via AP]