Judge: Man dumped from wheelchair competent for trial

TAMPA - A judge has declared Brian Sterner, who was dumped from his wheelchair at the Hillsborough jail, competent to stand trial.

Hillsborough Circuit Judge Robert Foster announced his ruling at a hearing this afternoon. Two doctors evaluated Sterner at the judge's order after Sterner's original attorney, John Trevena, raised concerns about his client's mental competency and filed documents from Sterner's parents that listed their concerns about Sterner's behavior in recent months.

Dr. Walter Afield, one of the doctors who examined Sterner, spoke at the brief hearing. The doctor told the judge that Sterner is competent to proceed with the criminal case, but he added that Sterner may need further care.

"I think he certainly needs some kind of therapy," Afield said.

After the hearing Sterner and his new attorney, Michael Maddux, said they weren't surprised with the doctors' decisions. When Maddux first got the case, he had another doctor evaluate Sterner. That doctor also determined that Sterner was competent, Maddux said.

Sterner's competency was questioned in the criminal case against him, a fleeing and eluding charge from the Tampa Police Department. However, it was not this case that put him in the national spotlight.

Sterner made national news after a video showed Detention Deputy Charlette Marshall-Jones dump Sterner out of his chair in the booking area of the jail. The incident prompted a review of the jail by an independent commission.

Sheriff David Gee apologized for the deputy's behavior. The deputy resigned. She now faces criminal charges in the incident.

Sterner's next hearing is set for May 13.

Complete coverage: Jail inmates allege abuse

-- Abbie VanSickle, Times Staff Writer

Comments

[Gilbert R. Ford]

This is one hurdle Mr. Sterner has crossed. My concern now is, "he needs some kinda therapy", does not give a very convincing endorsement of Mr. Sterner. Even more so, his parents has voiced concern about thier sons mental health on several occaisions here recent. That too, is reason to be cautious about the pressure a trial or court appearance may generate. None the less, I am anxious to see the outcome of both legal matters to which he is involved (Civil and Criminal).

[voxy]

mr. sterner, just keep going. Be careful who you trust. Stay away from your neighbors, DO NOT TRUST the many sheriffs or at least the one who seems to live in your neighborhood. Email me if you like.

[Lee Ann]

Hopefully some good comes of these tragic circumstances......
God Bless You!

[Tony]

quote: "I think he certainly needs some kind of therapy," Afield said.

what kind of doctor is this? "some kind of therapy"?? i could have deduced that! if he can't pinpoint what type(s) of mental health conditions mr. sterner has and specifically what type of care/treatment mr. sterner needs, dr. afield is not giving a competent opinion. would you trust a mechanic who said, "well, the engine needs 'some kind of work', but you'll still to be able to drive the car to michigan."