A stabbing defendant was ordered to undergo a full mental competency evaluation during an Aug. 8 hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld.
Devyn Cyphers, 28, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in the stabbing of a woman on July 31 on the 300 block of Maryland Avenue, NE.
According to court documents, Cyphers, who was friends with the victim, reportedly called her and asked to meet. During the conversation, Cyphers allegedly pulled out a knife and slashed the woman’s neck before reaching for a gun. The victim was able to escape.
Cyphers reportedly refused to participate in an initial mental competency screening by the Department of Behavioral Health. A defendant can’t stand trial unless the person understands the charges and can help a lawyer defend the case.
Cyphers was not present during the hearing but her attorney, Peter Odom, requested a full competency evaluation. Odom informed Judge Hertzfeld that Cyphers is “deeply, deeply in the throes of mental illness” and has refused to speak with him. Odom said Cyphers is currently on suicide watch, exhibiting signs of psychosis, and has marks on her wrists. Odom argued that keeping her at the DC Jail Central Treatment Facility (CTF) was “playing with fire.”
Prosecutors did not oppose the request but cited both safety and security concerns. Judge Hertzfeld granted the request and ordered Cyphers’ transfer to Saint Elizabeths Hospital for a full psychiatric evaluation.
A mental observation hearing is scheduled for Sept. 23.
