Alleged White House shooter found competent to stand trial

[bigtree]

WASHINGTON (AP) - A preliminary psychiatric screening has found that a man accused of firing shots at the White House in an attempt to kill President Barack Obama is competent to stand trial.

But federal prosecutors filed a motion Monday requesting more extensive tests should his mental health become an issue.

Prosecutors say an initial evaluation by a court-appointed psychiatrist found Oscar Ramiro Ortega-Hernandez is competent to understand court proceedings and aid in his defense.

http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/288313/28/Alleged-White-House-shooter-found-competent-


good. Now there can be a full trial. Hopefully they'll also take a look at the community where Ortega-Hernandez reportedly, openly discussed his desire to harm President Obama for as many as three years without anyone coming forward. Accomplices.

[jberryhill]

1. I believe they are going to focus on what he did, and what was his intent

While I understand your comments, it is a safe bet that there is only going to be one person put on trial.

[bigtree]

2. as it probably should be

but there will likely be a parade of witnesses.

Also, investigation may not be over.

[jberryhill]

3. Well, there are defense strategies that go in interesting directions, too

Competent to stand trial is one thing, but is unrelated to a defense of diminished capacity (colloquially, an insanity defense).

If he wants to claim that Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck drove him nuts, that's one direction he can go.