US doctors: German competent to stand trial in the killing of his much-older socialite wife
WASHINGTON – Doctors at a psychiatric hospital say a German man is competent to stand trial in the killing of his much-older wife, who was a journalist and socialite.
The doctors at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington, D.C., said in a report dated Tuesday that 48-year-old Albrecht Muth understands the legal process and appears to want to control the way the case unfolds. But they also say Muth has been weakened by an extended hunger strike.
Muth is charged in the August 2011 beating and strangulation death of 91-year-old Viola Drath inside their home. He has claimed to be a general in the Iraqi army and has said he receives visits from the archangel Gabriel.
The case has been sidetracked for months by debate on Muth’s competence for trial.
News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.