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Judge Boyd recalls Richard Cantu for April 17 competency update; orders follow-up on medication in custody
Summary
A hearing about Richard Cantu's competency and medication status was set for April 17. Defense counsel said Cantu had been competent in a jail program earlier but had not been receiving mental‑health medication while in custody; the judge directed follow‑up with the jail and set an interim check to confirm medication and evaluation progress.
Judge Stephanie Boyd recalled the case of Richard Cantu for April 17 to update the court on a competency evaluation and ensure the jail is providing any prescribed mental‑health medication.
Defense counsel reported that Cantu had previously been found competent after a jail‑based program in which he received injections, but that since his return to custody he had not received the same medications. Counsel asked the court to authorize a fast‑track psychiatric evaluation and to confirm medication continuity.
Judge Boyd asked the defendant directly about medication and forms and ordered the court and counsel to contact the sheriff and jail medical staff to confirm whether records and medication authorizations existed. "If you're not able to read or write, we're gonna have to change that and make sure you're able to read," the judge told the defendant while discussing accommodations and the need to ensure proper consent and documentation in custody.
The court set a recall/return date of April 17 for an update on competency evaluation and medication status, instructed the prosecutor and probation to assist with arranging an expedited psychiatric review, and asked the defense to file a motion for evaluation as needed. The judge emphasized follow‑up to make sure the jail provides required medication and that an expedited psycho‑forensic referral occur if appropriate.
