Community Corner

Defense: James D'Aquila 'Not Competent to Stand Trial Right Now'

Court officials said the New Britain man, who is accused of kicking his mother to death in he Southington home in February, cannot currently assist in his own defense.

A judge has ordered a New Britain man charged home to undergo 60 days of mental health evaluation and treatment at Connecticut Valley Hospital.

Defense attorneys, using testimony from social worker Julie Wilson of the state Department of Mental Health and Addictive services, argued in New Britain Superior Court Thursday that James D'Aquila, 34, is currently unable to assist in his own defense and is not competent to stand trial at this time.

According to The Record-Journal, Wilson told attorneys that a three-person team condicted the evaluation found considerable issues with his competency during :

"He is unable to understand the proceedings and unable to assist in his defense," Wilson said of the two main factors necessary to be competent for court proceedings.

Court officials confirmed Thursday afternoon that D'Aquila will serve 60 days at the Whiting Forensic Division of Connecticut Valley Hospital and will be re-evaluated again in July.

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A message left with Public Defender Christopher Eddy, D'Aquila's attorney, was not immediately returned Thursday afternoon.

arrested D'Aquila in February after his mother, 64-year-old Donna D'Aquila, was found dead inside her trailer park home. Police said after she was kicked repeatedly in the head.

James D'Aquila is facing various charges including murder, felony murder, first-degree robbery and third-degree larceny in the case.

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