A fatal stabbing defendant will likely waive his right to an insanity defense, despite DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman delaying his trial for his attorneys to explore the option.
Lamont Stephenson, also known as Leon Jackson, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 40-year-old Natina Kiah on March 6, 2019 on the 5000 block of D Street, SE.
Stephenson is also charged with cruelty to animals for his alleged torture, mutilation, and tormentation, that led to the death of a black cat on the same date.
At the hearing, Stephenson’s attorney, Sara Kopecki, said a psychiatrist who met with Stephenson “recognized serious mental issues.” However, the psychiatrist said it was unlikely that a Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) defense would be viable in Stephenson’s case.
An NGRI defense argues an individual is not criminally responsible because a mental condition prevented the person from knowing right from wrong or understanding the nature of their actions at the time of the offense.
As a result of the psychiatrist’s opinion, Kopecki said it was “highly unlikely” that the defense would proceed with an NGRI defense. However, before Stephenson officially waived his right to an NGRI defense, Kopecki said the defense wanted a psychologist to evaluate him.
Stephenson’s trial was initially scheduled for Sept. 28, but on June 22, Judge Edelman granted a defense motion to reschedule the trial until July 6, 2027. The defense asked for the delay to allow them time to investigate a possible NGRI defense.
The prosecutor inquired whether the serious mental issues mentioned would open the door to further questions about Stephenson’s mental competency to stand trial. A defendant must understand the charges against them and be able to assist in their defense.
Kopecki said she had no intention of raising concerns about Stephenson’s competency, but if the issue arose she would alert the judge and prosecutor.
Judge Edelman set an Oct. 2 deadline for a NGRI notice from the defense and parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 9.
