Incapable of Standing Trial
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Neuro-psychiatrist Ratko Kovacevic, who presented his findings about the indictees mental condition at a request by his Defence, said that the indictee suffered from chronic post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, permanent personality disorder and severe depression.I have determined that he is not capable of understanding the indictment, following the main trial and presenting his defence. ( ) He is not incapable of comprehending the essence, Kovacevic said.
The court expert further said that the indictee attempted to commit suicide in 2006 and that he had to undergo medical treatment in order to prevent new suicide attempts.I have paid special attention to a discharge summary issued by the Clinical Centre in Eastern Sarajevo, where he was hospitalised after having tried to commit suicide. He tried to cut his throat with a motor saw, but the saw cut his jaw bone instead, Kovacevic said.
The District Prosecution charges Markovic, former member of the Republika Srpska Army, VRS, with having beaten up and physically abused detained civilians in Sokolac municipality from June 1992 to March 1993.
The indictment alleges that, in September 1993 Markovic beat two prisoners in the Police Station premises in Sokolac using a metal stick and police baton.The court expert said that he had determined that the indictees mental soundness was reduced when he committed the crimes charged upon him.
The Prosecution objected to the court experts findings and opinion, requesting the Court to order a new expert examination. The Trial Chamber of the District Court in Eastern Sarajevo accepted its proposal.
The trial continuation date will be set at a later stage after an additional psychiatric examination of the indictee has been conducted.
