A mental competency evaluation for a carjacking defendant was approved by DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on Aug. 25.
Cornell Jamison, 21, is charged with armed carjacking for his alleged involvement in an incident that took place on the 4300 block of 3rd Street, SE on Jan. 22.
Jamison appeared in court alongside his co-defendent Laiten Bell, 20, who faces charges of armed carjacking, robbery, and two counts possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the same incident.
During the hearing, defense attorney Daniel Dorsey requested that Jamison undergo an examination to determine if he is mentally competent to stand trial. Dorsey argued that Jamison’s competency was in question based on their discussions and the defendant’s high school records.
In order to stand trial a defendant must be competent enough to understand the charges and work with his lawyer.
Judge Hertzfeld granted the motion for an evaluation.
Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 29.
