LAKEPORT, Calif. – The attorney for a man accused of setting fire to the residential care home where he lived has raised issues about her client's mental competency, which has delayed the anticipated entry of a plea in the case.
Anthony Wayne Conley, 29, was arrested last Thursday for the fire at the San Sousee adult care facility in Clearlake, as Lake County News has reported.
San Sousee is a state-licensed adult residential facility that has a contract with Lake County Behavioral Health for clients being treated for mental health issues.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Richard Hinchcliff said Conley is charged with one count of arson, four counts of attempted murder and three counts of elder or dependent abuse.
Conley was arraigned last week and on Tuesday appeared in court for entry of a plea along with his appointed attorney, Tracy Gatlin.
However, Deputy District Attorney Rachel Abelson, who is handling the case, said no plea was entered.
“His attorney declared a doubt as to his competency. Two doctors were appointed to examine him on that issue,” said Abelson.
The case is due to return to court on Feb. 28 for receipt of the doctors' reports, Abelson said.
She said the criminal proceedings have been suspended until Conley is either found not to be incompetent or is restored to competency.
“Once that happens and criminal proceedings are reinstated than he would likely enter a plea,” she said.
Conley remains in custody at the Lake County Jail, with bail set at $800,000.
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