Judge Orders Mental Heath Eval for Murder Defendant

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On March 22, a DC Superior Court judge ordered a murder defendant to undergo a mental health screening.

Mason Binion, 32, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged role in the shooting of Michael Francis Taylor, 21, on the 600 block of Farragut Street, NW in 2008. Binion is currently released under the High Intensity Supervision Program (HISP).

Defense lawyer, Kristin McGough, requested Binion be mentally evaluated to determine his competency for trial.

“Binion does not believe there is an issue, but he feels it will make everyone feel better if there is a forensic,” said Mcgough.

Judge Todd Edelman approved the request and continued the case to allow time for the screening.

A screening is scheduled on March 28.

Binion is also scheduled for a mental observation hearing on April 1.