Flash player is required to view weather conditions. Download

site web  

E-mail this page Print this page Most E-mailed / Most printed

HAMILTON — An accused bank robber who escaped police custody on Feb. 1 and allegedly held two people hostage has been found competent to stand trial.

In March, an attorney for James Bedinghaus Jr. filed a not guilty by reason of insanity plea before Butler County Common Pleas Judge Charles Pater and requested a competency evaluation.

Last week Pater found the 34-year-old capable of understanding the charges against him and assisting with his defense, thus declaring him competent for trial. In the entry, Pater cited a written psychological report.

Bedinghaus is charged with two counts of aggravated robbery with a firearm and a repeat violent offender specification, having weapons under disability, and grand theft in connection with the robbery of the First Financial Bank on Northwest Washington Boulevard in Hamilton in January.

He faces two counts of kidnapping, aggravated burglary and escape in connection with the Feb. 1 incident that led to a hostage standoff.

Hamilton police said while being transported to court, Bedinghaus freed himself from handcuffs and shackles before he ran from the "sally port" of the court building on High Street.

After a short run in downtown Hamilton, Bedinghaus gained access to a residence and held two people hostage for several hours before surrendering, according to police.

Thursday afternoon, May 8, defense attorney Michael Newland had not yet withdrawn the insanity plea. He could not be reached for comment. A hearing in the case has been set for Tuesday, May 13.

Bedinghaus remains house in the Butler County Jail.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2168 or lpack@coxohio.com.

Vote for this story!