Murder suspect Ryan Tanner found competent to stand trial

Judge John Feeney ruled that murder suspect Ryan Tanner is competent to stand trial.  Criminal proceedings were reinstated.

In addition to testimony by Dr. Jennifer Wilson and defense expert, Dr. Martin Williams, Judge Feeney considered written evaluation by Dr. Williams and a report by Dr. Wilson.

Judge Feeney said that both doctors agreed that Tanner suffers from mental issues but they disagreed on competency.

Judge Feeney said,"Dr. Wilson's testimony was more persuasive than Dr. Williams."

In arriving at his ruling, Judge Feeney considered the criteria according to the law.

Does the defendant have ability to understand the nature of legal proceedings? Judge Feeney said Tanner "is able to understand the nature of legal proceedings."

Does the defendant have the ability to assist counsel? Judge Feeney said "Tanner is able to rationally assist Mr. Clanton."

When Dr. Wilson met with Tanner  he made "good eye contact, had adequate hygiene and his thought structure was organized and linear."

In custody, Tanner has a buzz cut and shaved his beard.

Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm is the prosecutor for the case. Mr. Russ Clanton is Tanner's attorney.

Preliminary hearing was set for September 8 in the murder case. Time estimate is four days. Tanner's other case will "trail."

Defense wants time to prepare. Mr. Clanton already hinted that there maybe a motion to continue. Tanner entered a 10 day time waiver.

After the preliminary hearing, Ms. Timm said she plans to file a motion to consolidate and that the two cases are connected. Mr. Clanton disagreed.

Recent posts:
https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2020/07/judge-john-feeney-granted-defense.html?m=1

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2020/07/two-hour-hearing-turns-into-two-day.html?m=1