Hearing Today On Mental Health Of Man Accused Of Crashing Through Gate At PHL
By Tony Hanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Federal authorities are now seeking a mental health evaluation for the man who allegedly smashed through a gate and led police on a dangerous high speed chase on the runways at Philadelphia International Airport. A hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.
The prosecutor wouldn't say why he is requesting the mental health evaluation for 24-year-old Kenneth Mazik, but the judge is expected to decide whether to order that evaluation.
The prosecution also wants Mazik, who is in custody, held without bail pending trial.
During a brief court appearance Monday, Federal Magistrate Judge Thomas Rueter advised Mazik of the complaint against him.
"It says on or about March 1st 2012 in Philadelphia, you did unlawfully and intentionally use a device and weapon, that is an automobile, to seriously damage the facilities of the Philadelphia International Airport, which serves international aviation, disrupted the service at the airport and in doing so endangered and attempted to endanger the safety of the airport."
Federal authorities have now assumed prosecution of the case. Mazik was transferred from local to federal custody yesterday.
