Court to decide if man accused of killing Cork bishop in US can stand trial

A Hollywood court is expected to decide shortly on whether a man accused of shooting a Cork bishop will be tried for his murder.

Carlos Medina was charged in February 2023 with the murder of 69-year-old Bishop David O’Connell in his Los Angeles home in February 2023. He was also charged with a special allegation that he used a firearm during the commission of an offence.

Bishop O’Connell, a native of Brooklodge in Glanmire, had served as a priest in the Los Angeles archdiocese since he was ordained in 1979. The sheriff of Los Angeles County, Robert Luna, described him as a peacemaker who “had a passion serving those in need while improving our community”.

The case was stalled in October 2024 after his lawyers raised concerns about his ability to stand trial, during a pre-trial hearing. Their concerns arose during interactions they had with him since his arrest. 

His behaviour in prison while awaiting trial had also sparked concern. An independent expert brought in to assess Mr Medina believed he was not well enough to stand trial.

Competency inquiry

A competency inquiry is now underway, with the matter due back before the court this afternoon. A source told The Echo it is not certain yet when the competency inquiry will conclude “because they are doing it only in the afternoons”.

If Medina is found mentally unfit to stand trial, he will be required to undergo psychiatric treatment by a licensed psychologist.

Following that, the judge will decide on what options of treatment are required, which could include referral to a state mental health facility, for a period of up to four months.

After that, the court could grant additional time for treatment, or order that the criminal proceedings against him could continue. If convicted, Mr Medina could face up to 35 years to life in prison.