Federal judge orders psychiatric evaluation for Beth Israel synagogue arson suspect
Judge orders psychiatric evaluation for suspect in Beth Israel Synagogue arson case
A federal judge has ordered a psychiatric evaluation for Stephen Spencer Pittman, who is accused of setting fire to the office area of the Beth Israel synagogue.
The court order states there is reasonable belief Pittman may be suffering from a mental disease or defect that could affect his ability to understand the case against him.
Pittman is charged with arson, damaging religious property, and using fire to commit a felony. He had originally pleaded guilty to the arson after being caught on camera setting the office area on fire.
The evaluation will determine whether Pittman is competent to stand trial.
The U.S. Marshal Service has been ordered to take Pittman to a federal facility for the examination.