Brain-damage claim delays man’s trial in fires that killed 9

AKRON, Ohio – An Ohio suspect’s trial for two arson fires that killed nine people in his neighbourhood is being delayed because his lawyers say medical testing indicates he has brain damage and cognitive impairment.

The Akron Beacon Journal reports Stanley Ford’s attorneys contend the 59-year-old Akron man shouldn’t be facing a potential death penalty. They argue the U.S. Supreme Court has prohibited the execution of people who are intellectually disabled.

Jury selection was set to start this Tuesday, but the judge postponed trial, likely for months, to give the lawyers involved time to consult experts on questions about Ford’s mental condition.

Ford has pleaded not guilty in fires that killed two adults in April 2016 and two adults and five children in May 2017.

Prosecutors allege he had a “beef” with neighbours.

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Information from: Akron Beacon Journal, http://www.ohio.com