Mentally ill man sentenced in sword incident
South Whidbey RecordJan 26, 2019
A judge acknowledged that a
"He doesn't seem to have any ability to change his behavior," she said, "or if he has the ability, he chooses not to do so."
Following a trial, a jury on
Chief Criminal Prosecutor
In
According to Ohme, Locken has an extensive criminal history, including a conviction for purposely hitting a pedestrian with a car on
Ohme said Locken deserves sympathy because of his serious mental illness, but that he represents an "extreme danger to the community."
Ohme asked for the maximum sentence.
Locken's attorney,
The forensic psychologist, however, concludes that Locken is criminally insane in a more-probable-than-not basis; she did not recommend leniency.
"He has presented a threat to others in his home, in psychiatric hospitals, on the road, and in and around homes of private citizens," the forensic psychologist wrote, "and there is a high likelihood that he will continue to present a threat to public safety and security if not controlled by the court."
According to another report by the psychologist, Locken may be suffering from schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder and substance abuse disorders. The report states Locken had been living in woods on land he owns.
The report describes some of Locken's delusions. He has said God gave him a sign to marry a girl he never met who he believed gave birth to his child; he has a daughter with special powers; he was raped by a judge; vampires can insert thoughts into his ears and bloodstream; and he owns several major corporations.
McKay asked the judge to impose a mid-range sentence and indicated he was filing paperwork to appeal Locken's conviction.
Churchill, however, noted that Locken has resisted treatment for his mental health issues. She imposed a sentence of 112.5 months in prison, which includes a mandatory 36 months for the dangerous weapon enhancements.