LAKEPORT >> The court suspended criminal proceedings in the case of William Ernest Lukens until cleared by a doctor. The decision came after defense attorney David Markham cast doubt on his client’s competency.
Lukens, 81, is charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, Sex Offender Failing to Notify Change of Address, Indecent Exposure and Sexual Battery for the Purpose of Sexual Arousal.
The charges stem from an October incident when investigators allege Lukens brutalized a 73-year-old woman who is medically incapacitated due to serious disabilities and therefore unable to protect herself. Police also reported that Lukens exposed himself to a 23-year-old staff member.
According to Lakeport Police Chief Brad Rasmussen, Lukens has a previous felony conviction for a serious sex offense, and he has also served time in the state prison system.
Lukens, who moved to Lakeport shortly before the incident, was required to register as a sex offender. Investigators report that his last registration was as a resident of Nice.
With proceeding suspended, the matter was continued to November 29 at 8:15 a.m. for a hearing on the doctor’s report in Department Four. The defendant is ordered to be present. The Court appointed two local physicians to examine the defendant and report their findings in writing.
Judge Robert Crone presided over the matter as Deputy District Attorney Edward Borg was present in court as well.
