Defendant Challenges Mental Incompetence Finding, Requests Outside Opinion

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Michael Burke, 45, through his attorney Thomas Healy, told the court he wants to challenge a finding of incompetency and hire outside experts to prove he is mentally competent to stand trial.

Burke, 45, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing during a street fight on the 1700 block of Rhode Island Avenue, NE, on April 16. 

According to court documents, the victim suffered a cut to the left side of his left jaw and was transported to the hospital with the blade still lodged inside his mouth.

Healy told DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park he finds Burke to be competent and engaged in helping with his case. Healy has contacted four experts to schedule a new evaluation. 

The next hearing is scheduled for Nov. 12.