Competency hearing set for felony assault suspect

A competency hearing has been scheduled for a man accused of severely injuring a woman during an assault at a South Virginia Street apartment in January.

Thirty-six-year-old Isaac Benjamin allegedly caused major injuries to a 43-year old Pembroke woman during the assault, including multiple broken bones. The victim was flown to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for treatment.

He went to the Kentucky Correctional Psychiatric Center for an evaluation and public defender Eric Bearden said issues were found that necessitate a competency hearing.

Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Jerad Smith did not object and said they need to get the ball rolling on the process that could lead to Benjamin receiving substantial mental health treatment.

Bearden said he’s likely to waive the evidentiary hearing and both attorneys believe they’ll be able to agree on some type of conclusion based on the KCPC mental evaluation.

Judge Andrew Self set the competency hearing for November 21.