Appeals Court Upholds Ruling to Make Defendant Competent to Stand Trial
A federal appeals court has ruled in favor of forcibly medicating Robert Dear, the 66-year-old man accused of killing three people at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs in 2015. This decision paves the way for Dear to potentially be deemed competent to stand trial.
Trial Judge’s Order Upheld
The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the decision of a lower court judge. The judge had previously ruled that involuntary medication with anti-psychotic drugs could be used in an attempt to restore Dear’s mental competency.
Charges and Details of the 2015 Attack
Dear, a former art dealer, has pleaded not guilty to the 68 charges against him stemming from the November 27th, 2015 attack. Prosecutors allege Dear’s motive was opposition to abortion services offered by the clinic. They claim he entered the facility armed with a significant arsenal, including rifles, handguns, a shotgun, propane tanks, and over 500 rounds of ammunition. The attack resulted in the deaths of two civilians and a police officer before being brought to an end after a five-hour standoff.
Dear’s History of Erratic Behavior
Court appearances by Dear have been marked by outbursts and rambling statements. He has voiced anti-abortion views, referring to himself as a “warrior for the babies,” and expressed paranoid delusions about the FBI tracking him.
Treatment Since Arrest
Dear has received mental health treatment since his arrest, including time spent at the Colorado Mental Health Institute in Pueblo. The court’s decision regarding forced medication allows for the possibility of Dear’s mental state improving to the point where he can understand the court proceedings and participate effectively in his own defense.
