Mental Competency Evaluation Ordered for Bishop Murder Suspect

Criminal proceedings for Carlos Medina, accused of murdering Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell, have been suspended as the court evaluates his mental competency. Medina’s attorney raised concerns about his ability to stand trial, citing multiple hospital visits and assessments indicating he may not comprehend the charges against him. O’Connell was found shot dead in his home on February 18, 2023, and Medina, who was arrested shortly thereafter, has confessed to the crime. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for October 17, but Medina did not appear, leading to the judge's decision to order a mental health evaluation. If found incompetent, his trial will be delayed until he can be deemed fit to stand trial, facing a potential sentence of 35 years to life if convicted. Medina's wife worked for O’Connell, and the motive for the shooting remains unclear.