An insanity defense has been nixed for a Navarro County man accused of torturing his former Texas neighbor. The man allegedly abducted the woman from her Parker County home in March 2011. He purportedly took the woman to his residence in Corsicana, approximately 100 miles from the site of the claimed abduction. Accused of using a deer-skinning device to torture the woman, he was arrested 12 days later at his Corsicana home.

He has been charged with aggravated sexual assault and aggravated kidnapping. If convicted of these crimes, the accused individual could receive a sentence of life in prison. Defense attorneys have told the judge that the man will not use an insanity defense, acknowledging that he is competent to stand trial for the alleged offenses. The judge has also ruled that statements made by the man to law enforcement following his arrest may be used as evidence during the trial.

In Texas and elsewhere, allegations of violent crimes are prosecuted vigorously. The sex crimes this man stands accused of are very serious and could lead to many years in prison, among other consequences.

If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to remember that you still have rights. One important thing to note from this situation is that anything you say to police can be used against you in court. Because of this, it is important to exercise your right to remain silent if you are arrested. While he faces significant legal challenges, speaking to someone knowledgeable in criminal defense may be a good way to make sure the man in this case understands his rights and options under the law.

Source: The Dallas Morning News, "Man charged in Parker County sex torture case won't use insanity defense," Associated Press, Jan. 19, 2012