Judge Orders Competency Restoration for Defendant

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On Aug. 14, a DC Superior Court judge ordered that a defendant receive a full competency exam at DC Jail to determine if he can stand trial. 

Marlow Dugger, 42, is charged with simple assault and attempted possession of a prohibited weapon for allegedly threatening a victim with a knife over access to a water valve on July 26 on the 1500 block of Wisconsin Avenue, NW.

On Aug. 5, a Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) doctor reported that Dugger was incompetent to stand trial and recommended that he receive a full exam at the jail. Parties agreed that Dugger could benefit from more mental health treatment.

Judge Jonathan Pittman urged counsel to consider what steps to take next after the examination is completed. He specifically inquired about any plea negotiations between counsel. According to the lawyers, there have not been talks of plea agreements.

Dugger is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 17 to evaluate his progress in gaining competency.