FAYETTEVILLE — Heather Carlene Swain, one of four Prairie Grove residents charged with capital murder in the beating death of Ronnie Lee Bradley, will undergo a mental examination that could delay the Aug. 19 trial.
The evaluation, ordered by Washington County Circuit Judge William Storey, is to determine if Swain is competent to stand trial, understands the nature and consequences of the proceedings against her and if she can assist in her defense.
Swain’s attorney, Bill James, also has asked if he can attend the examination as an observer. In his motion, James contends he should be allowed to attend because the questions could compromise Swain’s Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. James also wants to be able to observe Swain’s mannerisms.
Anthony Allen Swinford, 35, and Timothy William Swinford, 37, along with Swain and James Patton, both 35, face charges of accomplice to capital murder and kidnapping. All four face either life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty if convicted on the accomplice to capital murder charges and 10 to 40 years or life on kidnapping charges. There also are sentencing enhancements in play for being habitual offenders and engaging in criminal group activity.
Swain faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence and if convicted faces up to six years and a fine of up to $10,000.
All are held without bond in the Washington County Detention Center.
Prosecutors haven’t decided whether to seek the death penalty in the case.
An arrest report said Bradley, 48, appeared to have been severely beaten. Bradley’s body was discovered the morning of Dec. 27 in the driveway of 17409 Four Corners Road, near the intersection of Greasy Valley Road, in rural southwest Washington County.
Anthony Swinford told investigators he beat Bradley and left his body in the driveway, according to the report. He identified Swain, Patton and Timothy Swinford as accomplices.
Anthony Swinford said the four beat Bradley repeatedly at different places across southwest Washington County.
Bradley appeared to have been killed before his body was dumped, investigators said. Detectives believe Bradley knew the four suspects.