The mental competency of Joshua Caleb Brown had been put on hold for months as another doctor had been appointed to evaluate the man who allegedly fired at or in the direction of Caltrans workers and law enforcement officers.
Earlier this year the report of Dr. Podboy was received, along with reports from Dr. Fithian and Dr. Shirikian, which contained the mental competency evaluation of the defendant.
After the Court read and considered all of the doctor’s reports, the Court determined the defendant is competent to stand trial, and the criminal proceedings were reinstated.
Last year, the court found the defendant was unable to understand the criminal proceedings rationally. The court then appointed two physicians to conduct an evaluation, but they provided conflicting reports.
Brown is charged with three counts of assault with a firearm on a peace officer, and two counts of threats to commit a crime. He was also charged with possessing a firearm, two counts of discharging firearm negligently, and person prohibited in possession of ammunition.
During the recent settlement conference, Brown entered a no contest plea to negligently discharging a firearm.
The matter is referred to the Lake County Probation Department for the preparation of a sentencing report and recommendation.
Sentencing is set for May 7 at 1:30 p.m. in Department Two.
The Jury Trial has been set for May 9 at 8:15 a.m. in a department yet to be announced.
