Judge says New Kensington murder case likely to move forward
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A Westmoreland County judge said Tuesday a New Kensington man charged last summer with the murder of his former roommate has been found to be mentally competent.
Common Pleas Court Judge Scott Mears said a psychological evaluation appears to have cleared the path for the prosecution of Nico Lee Harris, 40, who was charged in July with criminal homicide, burglary and trespassing in connection with the July 5 killing of 58-year-old David Risher. Risher’s body was discovered in a Freeport Road home police the two men once shared.
Police said Risher was stabbed to death. Harris was arrested after police said they found bloody footprints near Risher’s body that matched a pair of sandals Harris was wearing when he was taken into custody.
Harris is still awaiting a preliminary hearing and his case has been on hold to address mental health concerns.
New Kensington District Judge Frank Pallone canceled a preliminary hearing in July when he questioned Harris’ competency. During that court appearance, Harris contended he was the son of former President Donald Trump and husband to former first Lady Michelle Obama in addition to making other statements that raised doubt about his mental state.
Mears, during a court hearing on Tuesday, said a psychological evaluation was completed.
“According to a doctor appointed by the state, in his report the conclusion is the defendant is competent,” Mears said.
The judge held off on making a formal ruling, saying both Harris’ defense attorney and the district attorney’s office wanted to formally question the doctor about his findings at a hearing to be scheduled later this year.
Harris has been in jail without bond since his arrest.
He was scheduled to appear before Pallone on Thursday for a preliminary hearing. Mears ordered that hearing again be postponed until he makes a formal ruling regarding Harris’ competency.