Alleged AT Killer Not Competent to Stand Trial
James L. Jordan will be transferred to a psychiatric facility.
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On Wednesday, Judge Pamela Sargent ruled that James L. Jordan, the alleged AT machete killer, was not competent to stand trial, after reviewing a psychiatric report completed by the state. Jordan “will be transported to a federal facility to be restored to competency,” according to court documents.
It is uncertain how long that process might take, and when or if Jordan might appear in court again.
Jordan, 30, has been held in federal custody since May 11, when he was arrested in Virginia in connection with the stabbing death of thru-hiker Ronald “Stronghold” Sanchez and harm to another, unnamed thru-hiker after threatening them in camp. The second thru-hiker escaped after playing dead then called authorities. Police took a blood-smattered Jordan into custody without incident. (Read the full story here).
The news marks the latest development in a grim season on the AT, where murders remain exceedingly rare.