Neuropsychiatrist Declares Hodzic Unable to Stand Trial
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Hodzic was initially on trial with Dzevad Salcin. The case against Salcin has been separated until his ability to stand trial has been evaluated.
Neuropsychiatrist Rusmir Softic testified at today’s hearing. Softic said Hodzic suffered from attention deficit disorder. He said Hodzic was unable to make decisions or plans and couldn’t manipulate information. According to Softic, Hodzic’s mental capabilities were damaged, and said it was difficult to comprehend his speech.
“He can’t understand the crime he’s been charged with. He’s incapable of cooperating with his defense attorney or following the court proceedings,” Softic said.
According to Softic, Hodzic’s mental health had begun to decline since his injury and coma recovery.
Softic said he completely disagreed with claims made by other expert witnesses, who said Hodzic was simulating his condition.
“A bullet from a machine gun literally blew up the right part of his brain. Had anyone carefully looked at the CT image of his brain, they would have not said such a thing…He is practically functioning at the level of a child,” Softic said.
Softic said Hodzic’s mental health could be improved if he underwent a certain rehabilitation program, but no significant improvement that would make him able to stand trial would be possible.
Softic presented his findings in collaboration with a team of experts from the Clinic of Neuropsychiatry in Tuzla as per an order by the Bosnian state court. Hodzic’s health has been subjected to several expert examinations. The experts have presented different opinions on Hodzic’s ability to stand trial.
Softic said his team evaluated the case file which had been submitted to them, as well as the defendant’s previous medical findings. He said psychological testing and a psychiatric examination of the defendant had been conducted as well. Hodzic’s medical history was obtained from his wife.
The prosecution proposed that the court reject the findings and order a new expert examination of Hodzic’s health. The defense objected to this proposal, pointing to the poor health of the defendant.
The trial chamber will render a decision at a later stage.
In a separate case, Hodzic was sentenced to 12 years in prison for war crimes in Trusina. The first instance verdict was handed down in September 2015.
