A northeast Iowa man, slated for trial next week for trying to kill his mother, will undergo an evaluation to determine his competency to stand trial.
In April, Decorah Police were called to investigate a possible assault with significant injuries to the victim. The alleged assailant, 27-year-old Daniel Hammel of Decorah, was still inside the home with access to firearms.
Law enforcement surrounded the home and, after a short standoff, Hammel eventually surrendered without further incidents. He was arrested on charges of attempted murder, a Class B felony, plus willful injury causing serious injury, first-degree harassment, and domestic abuse assault with intent to inflict serious injury.
According to criminal complaints, Hammel got into a fight with his mother when he allegedly stated he wanted to kill her while hitting her in the head with a dumbbell. The woman suffered serious injury to her head and defensive wounds to her arm.
Hammel has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to stand trial September 18th in Winneshiek County District Court.
However, last week, a judge approved the defense’s request for Hammel to be evaluated for his competency to stand trial. The evaluation is to be conducted by a State psychiatrist to determine if he is suffering from a mental disorder which prevents him from appreciating the charge, understanding the proceedings, or assisting effectively in his defense.
A report on Hammel’s competency is due within 10 days of completion of the evaluation, which would be after his current September trial date.
Hammel is being held in the Winneshiek County Jail without bond.
