A man accused of fatally attacking the owner of a House of Cards in Southern California is facing a delay in his case as a court-appointed psychiatrist evaluates his mental competency for trial.
The victim, Kelly Sheron, a 69-year-old military veteran well-known for his patriotic home decorations in Escondido, passed away in May after being critically injured in an assault outside his residence.
Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, has been charged with murder along with several related felonies linked to the incident.
According to prosecutors, Butler is alleged to have punched Sheron, causing him to fall, and continued the assault while he was on the ground. A bystander who attempted to intervene was also harmed.
Things took a turn when Butler declined to leave his cell for a scheduled arraignment recently.
This led Judge Richard Monroy to pause the proceedings until a psychiatric evaluation can determine whether Butler comprehends the charges and can contribute to his defense.
People gathered outside the courthouse this week, many holding signs demanding justice for Sheron.
Butler is currently held at the Vista Detention Center without the option of bail. Should he be convicted on all counts, he could face a sentence ranging from 28 years to life in prison.
Investigators have yet to confirm a motive for the attack. While the police continue to look into factors, including any potential political motives, they noted that no evidence has emerged to support that theory.
Authorities are also exploring whether there was any prior relationship between Butler and Sheron.
The District Attorney of San Diego County, Summer Stephens, commented on the community’s reaction to Sheron’s murder, describing it as a tragic loss of a beloved veteran.
A fundraising campaign for Sheron’s family highlights his pride as a U.S. veteran and his well-known display of the American flag and various patriotic decorations.
Concerns about Butler’s mental health have arisen post-arrest, with his estranged wife, Brianna, mentioning that he had experienced mental illness and PTSD from his time in the Navy.
She expressed her disbelief over the allegations, noting that the couple had once met Sheron while out walking their dog and he displayed no signs of hostility.
Butler is now set to face a CARE court hearing in San Diego on July 17, where his mental competency will be evaluated before progressing with the murder case. This postponement adds to the frustration for Sheron’s family and supporters eagerly seeking resolution in a case that has greatly affected the Escondido community.
