Hesperia man awaiting psych testing in CSC case

Thomas

HART — A 21-year-old Hesperia man has been referred to the Center for Forensic Psychiatry in Ypsilanti where he will undergo a psychiatric exam to determine if he is mentally competent to stand trial on a criminal sexual conduct (CSC) charge involving an alleged sexual relationship with an underage female.

Anthony James Thomas faces one count of first-degree CSC, which is punishable by up to life in prison, stemming from an alleged incident or incidents that occurred last April in Newfield Township, according to his 27th Circuit Court file. The psychiatric testing would determine if he is “criminally responsible” or competent, Oceana County Assistant Chief Prosecutor Jeffrey Kabot said. The testing is not expected to occur for approximately three months due to the backlog of cases at the forensic center, and those awaiting testing are normally lodged at the facility until the testing is completed.