Prosecutors push for Rabat murder accused to get new psychiatric assessment
Noel Azzopardi's murder trial remains suspended following insanity finding
Prosecutors want a man whose murder trial is suspended after a jury concluded that he was mentally unfit to stand trial to be reassessed by psychiatrists.
A court heard on Wednesday that prosecutors have filed an application with the Magistrates’ Court to appoint a new panel of three psychiatrists to reassess Noel Azzopardi and determine whether his mental impairment persists.
Azzopardi stands accused of murdering Eric Borg on New Year’s Day in Fidloqqom Road, Rabat.
He pleaded not guilty to charges, and his defence lawyer subsequently argued that Azzopardi was criminally insane, unable to understand the proceedings he faced or instruct his defence team.
In January, a jury concluded that Azzopardi was mentally unfit to stand trial. A judge subsequently suspended the murder case against him.
Prosecutors have however indicated that they would like the compilation of evidence against Azzopardi to proceed, to ensure evidence against Azzopardi is preserved and placed on public record.
In a hearing on Wednesday, prosecutors also noted that should a new psychiatric report deem Azzopardi fit to stand trial, the bill of indictment process could resume.
The defence argued that if the case were to proceed to a formal bill of indictment, they would be unable to file preliminary exceptions, as Azzopardi lacks the capacity to consult his lawyers or raise necessary legal claims.
Lawyers representing the victim's family also weighed in, supporting the preservation of evidence while respecting defence safeguards.
The prosecution is led by Lawyers Kevin Valletta and Kaylie Bonett on behalf of the Attorney General. Lawyer Arthur Azzopardi is representing the accused while lawyer Joe Giglio and Michaela Giglio appeared for the victim’s family.