Criminal proceedings against a man accused of the murder of a Cork-born bishop in Los Angeles remain suspended because of concerns about his mental competency to stand trial.
Carlos Medina, the husband of Bishop David O’Connell’s housekeeper, was charged with the murder of the Brooklodge man at his home in Hacienda Heights in Los Angeles days after the shooting on February 18, 2023.
He is also charged with a special allegation that he used a firearm during the commission of an offence. He has pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Last October, the case was suspended after Medina’s lawyers raised concerns about his ability to stand trial, during a pre-trial hearing.
A spokesman for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said that the next competency hearing in the case is scheduled for March 6. He added: “Criminal proceedings are still suspended.”
His legal team raised concerns about Medina’s competency to stand trial because of interactions they have had with him since his arrest almost two years ago.
It is understood that his behaviour while in prison awaiting trial has also sparked concern. He also was assessed by an independent expert who believed he was not able to stand trial.
Medina’s wife worked as a housekeeper for the bishop, while Medina himself also carried out some work for him on a number of occasions.
He was arrested after barricading himself into his home following the discovery of the bishop's body by a deacon who went to the house after Bishop O’Connell failed to turn up for a scheduled meeting.
If Medina is found mentally unfit to stand trial, he will be required to undergo psychiatric treatment by a licensed psychologist.
Following that, the judge will decide on what options of treatment are required, which could include referral to a state mental health facility, for a period of up to four months.
After that, the court could grant additional time for treatment, or order that the criminal proceedings against him could continue. If convicted, Medina could face up to 35 years to life in prison.
The 69-year-old bishop’s killing was met with devastation by Catholics across the Los Angeles archdiocese, where he had served since his ordination in 1979.
All county flags in Los Angeles were lowered to half-mast in his honour, while vigils were held nightly in the week after his death.
He was laid to rest in a crypt in Los Angeles Cathedral.
An exhibit of some of his belongings has been opened in a church where he served.