Beignet : “Fatal Dog Stabbing: Suspect Unfit for Trial”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Mental capacity defense dog stabbing trial
2. Fatal dog stabbing mental health defense

An Asheville man deemed mentally unfit to stand trial after allegedly stabbing a dog to death at a city park in June 2023 will be sent to a psychiatric hospital. Judge Karen Eady-Williams accepted the findings of a mental capacity evaluation that determined James Wesley Henry lacks the ability to proceed to trial. Henry, indicted for torturing and killing a dog named Beignet, will undergo mental capacity restoration services at Broughton Hospital. The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office is awaiting a bed for his transfer. Once restored, Henry will continue his criminal case. This disturbing incident sparked outrage and led to Henry’s arrest and charges of felony cruelty to animals.

Man Found Mentally Incapable After Stabbing Dog at Asheville City Park

An unsettling incident took place at Weaver Park in Asheville, where an Asheville man, James Wesley Henry, allegedly stabbed a dog to death. The tragic event occurred on June 26, 2023, when the dog, named Beignet, was brutally attacked while its owner, Liesbeth Mackie, was playing pickleball.

Judge Rules In Favor of Mental Incapacity

In a recent development, Buncombe County Superior Court Judge Karen Eady-Williams declared that James Wesley Henry, the accused, lacked the mental capacity to stand trial. This decision came after a thorough evaluation conducted by Central Regional Hospital, which concluded that Henry was unfit to proceed with court proceedings.

Transfer to Psychiatric Hospital

Following the ruling, Judge Eady-Williams ordered that Henry be transferred to Broughton Hospital, a state mental health facility in Morganton. At the hospital, Henry will undergo mental capacity restoration services, including therapy and medication to aid in his understanding of the legal process.

Challenges in Transportation

Assistant District Attorney Josh Harrold highlighted the challenge of securing a bed at the hospital for Henry’s transfer. The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office is currently awaiting availability before transporting Henry to the facility.

Legal Proceedings and Future Steps

Defense attorney Ehsan Akhavi acknowledged the backlog at the hospital and expressed uncertainty regarding the timeline for Henry’s admission. Despite the delay, Judge Eady-Williams emphasized the importance of initiating Henry’s evaluation and restoration services promptly.

Continued Monitoring and Review

Once at Broughton Hospital, Henry will undergo periodic reviews to assess his progress. Upon restoration of his mental capacity, he will return to court to resume his criminal case. However, concerns were raised about Henry’s compliance with medication post-hospitalization, as it could impact his legal standing.

Details of the Disturbing Incident

The harrowing incident at Weaver Park on Murdock Avenue unfolded when Henry allegedly attacked Beignet, a beloved mixed-breed dog, resulting in its untimely death. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with multiple 911 calls reporting the violent act.

Arrest and Charges

Henry was promptly arrested and charged with felony cruelty to animals following the incident. He has been held at the Buncombe County Detention Facility since June 27, awaiting further legal proceedings.

As the case unfolds, the community awaits updates on Henry’s mental health evaluation and the subsequent impact on his legal status. The tragic loss of Beignet has left a lasting impact on all involved, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and intervention.