A court ruled on Monday, April 29, that a Rocky View woman charged with attempting to kill her husband is unfit to stand trial due to her worsening dementia condition.
According to media reports, Justice Sandra Mah accepted evidence from psychiatrist Dr. David Tano that the 73-year old Rhonda Campbell’s severe dementia has rendered her incapable of properly instructing her defence counsel.
Tano said Campbell was not medically fit to stand trial in his estimation as she would not be able to understand court proceedings. Tano added Campbell does not believe she faces a criminal allegation although she's aware of the judicial proceedings.
The doctor noted Campbell adamantly denies having charges against her and cannot advise counsel.
Mah ordered Campbell remain at the Southern Alberta Forensic Psychiatry Centre until she can appear before the Alberta Review Board for disposition. Tano noted treatment orders would not be beneficial at this time.
Campbell was originally charged with attempted murder back on Jan. 31, after which she spent a lot of time at the Southern Alberta Forensic Psychiatry Centre.
At the time, Cochrane RCMP officers were called to her home where she surrendered herself to the police.
The victim, Campbell’s husband, was transported to a Calgary hospital with serious injuries.
When Campbell was first admitted, Tano stated she showed signs of psychosis and delusions.
After appearing in court on Feb. 5, it was decided that Campbell would receive a 30-day psychiatric evaluation to see if she was fit to stand before court.
According to reports, it's expected the Review Board will order Campbell to be sent to a long-term care facility where she can be cared for on a 24/7 basis.
