vFourteen-year-old Kayden Abney, charged with murder in connection with the deadly Ybor City shooting, already had a troubled past.
Despite facing unrelated juvenile charges and being declared competent by doctors, his current legal situation raises questions about his fitness for trial.
During a recent court hearing, Abney's defense attorney hinted at potentially requesting another competency evaluation. This evaluation would assess whether his mental state allows him to understand the charges against him and participate effectively in his defense.
Anthony Rickman, a criminal defense attorney not involved in the case, explained that competency doesn't solely depend on age. It focuses on whether a mental condition prevents someone from comprehending the charges and assisting in their defense.
Although Abney pleaded not guilty, a potential competency evaluation would likely occur in jail. Rickman clarified that regardless of the evaluation's outcome, the case would proceed, with a possible delay if incompetency is found.
"If he's found to be incompetent, the case doesn't get dismissed or go away," Rickman explained. "Instead, he would undergo a restoration process to regain competency."
Prosecutors are expected to request pretrial detention for Abney without bond.
Abney is one of two 14-year-olds who were present during the Ybor City shooting. Tragically, the other young teenager was one of the two victims killed in the gunfire.
Dwayne Tillman, 21, was also arraigned alongside Abney for his alleged involvement in the shooting.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the question of Abney's competency will remain a key factor in determining how this case moves forward.
Comments
Post a Comment