MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (AP) - A Deep River man charged with killing his mother told a judge that he’s planning a defense based on mental disease or defect at the time of the slaying.
The Hartford Courant reports (https://cour.at/1Al2JJI ) Robert Rankin waived his right to a jury trial during a brief hearing Tuesday in Superior Court. Rankin agreed to have his case heard by a three-judge panel next month.
Rankin recently underwent psychiatric evaluations by a mental health professional hired by his attorney. His reports were submitted to the court and were the basis for the 24-year-old’s not guilty plea based on mental disease or defect.
Police say Rankin admitted to killing his mother, 45-year-old Margaret Rohner, at the home they shared in December 2013.
Rankin’s trial is scheduled to begin June 3.
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Information from: Hartford Courant, https://www.courant.com
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