AUGUSTA, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- A man from Gardiner accused of murdering his father, then dismembering the body, will be sent to the Riverview Psychiatric Center rather than going on trial. The judge handling the case ruled Leroy Smith is not competent to stand trial.
Smith tried to plead his case during the hearing, rambling on about the rock band Slayer and saying he can't get a fair trial, before he was stopped by the judge. His attorney said no lawyer can provide a proper defense for Smith because he is so delusional.
"Because of Mr. Smith's delusions we are unable to present a defense for him or even to make an inquiry to what a legal defense would be," said Defense Attorney Pam Ames.
The head of Maine Forensic Services testified she evaluated Smith twice and found him to have acute delusional thinking.
A person ruled not competent to stand trial is sent to the Riverview Psychiatric Center for observation and treatment. Smith's status will be reevaluated over the next several months.
