–Attorneys for Kyle Lou Ricke are asking for a competency hearing, to determine if the Algona man is fully aware of the charges against him and able to participate in his own defense.
In court documents filed this week, Ricke’s attorney Matthew Pittinger states that he has concerns about the defendant’s mental state, and whether he can appreciate the situation and assist his legal counsel. Pittinger did not cite any specific concerns, but he is asking the court to set a formal hearing on the matter.
With that in mind, Pittinger also filed a motion for a continuance in the case this week. A pre-trial conference is currently scheduled for May 31st, and the trial is set to begin on June 25th. Pittinger would like those proceedings pushed back so the court can make a ruling on this matter.
Last month, Ricke’s defense team requested the murder trial be moved from Kossuth County due to intense media coverage following his arrest. A judge has not ruled on that motion yet.
Ricke is charged with 1st Degree Murder in connection with the shooting death of Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram on the evening of September 13th, 2023.
