FAYETTEVILLE -- The trial of a Springdale man charged with capital murder in the stabbing death of an auto mechanic has been moved to late October, court officials said Tuesday.
Juan Pablo Perez-Lopez, 29, told police during questioning he stabbed Jesus Cecilio Villalobos about 20 times Feb. 13, 2013. His trial was delayed to allow Perez-Lopez to have a second mental evaluation to determine if he's fit to stand trial. Perez-Lopez wants to use a defense of mental disease or disorder, according to court filings.
Washington County Circuit Judge William Storey reset the case to Oct. 27.
Perez-Lopez pleaded not guilty in March 2013. He has remained in jail since with no bond set. Bond is rarely granted in capital cases.
The examination is to determine if Perez-Lopez is competent to stand trial, understands the nature and consequences of the proceedings against him and if he can assist in his defense. An earlier examination at the Arkansas State Hospital found Perez-Lopez was fit to proceed.
NW News on 08/27/2014