Case Postponed for Man Charged in “Trump House” Incident
The prosecution of a man alleged to have fatally assaulted the owner of a well-known San Diego residence dubbed the “Trump House” has been paused. This halt is due to a court-appointed psychiatrist evaluating the defendant’s mental competence to face trial.
Kelly Sheron, aged 69, was a military veteran recognized locally for adorning his home with patriotic decorations and support for former President Donald Trump. His home in Escondido, California, attracted attention over the years.
Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, faces murder charges along with several other felonies linked to the attack on Sheron.
On May 20, Butler allegedly continued to assault Sheron even after the veteran collapsed outside his home. An attempt by a bystander to intervene resulted in injuries, and Sheron ultimately died on May 24 after several critical days following the incident.
Complications arose in the legal process when Butler refused to leave his cell for a scheduled arraignment hearing last week. Judge Richard Monroy then decided to suspend the criminal proceedings until Butler undergoes a psychiatric evaluation. This assessment aims to determine if he understands the charges against him and if he can competently assist with his defense.
Brianna Butler, the suspect’s estranged wife, remarked, “He has a history of mental illness that has become violent for our family, so it was best for us to separate.” Despite this, she expressed surprise over the recent allegations, recalling that she and Butler had previously met Sheron on walks and found him to be pleasant and courteous.
“When we talked to them, he never showed any hostility,” she stated. “I really don’t know where that came from.”
Butler is scheduled to appear in court on July 17. The San Diego CARE court program will assess his mental competency before the case can proceed.
Currently held at the Vista Detention Center without bail, Butler faces a potential sentence ranging from 28 years to life in state prison if he is convicted of all charges.
