Psychiatrist Evaluates Mental Health of Witness in Tomas Trial

Tomas, a former member of the Bosnian Serb Army, has been charged with the physical abuse and inhumane treatment of Bosniak civilians in the village of Breza in the municipality of Hadzici on November 29, 1992.

Upon the invitation of the cantonal prosecution of Sarajevo, psychiatrist Abdulah Kucukalic assessed the mental health of witness Asim Korjenic. In a hearing held in March, Korjenic had said that Tomas had beaten and mistreated him in Hadzici.

“I didn’t register symptoms that classify as PTSD, which were present after the stressful event he experienced in 1992. They are present, but not on a large scale and of the intensity that would warrant a diagnosis of chronic PTSD…Taking into account the time factor, adaptation and therapy, there have been improvements,” Kucukalic concluded.

He said that it was undisputable that the traumatic event left Korjenic with certain psychological problems, however.

During cross-examination, Kucukalic said that Korjenic’s previous medical records weren’t presented to him.

Kucukalic’s examination concluded the prosecution’s presentation of evidence.

The trial will continue on November 4. The defense will examine two witnesses at the next hearing.