Pubdate: Sat, 17 Jul 1999
Source: Houston Chronicle (TX)
Copyright: 1999 Houston Chronicle
Contact:  http://www.chron.com/
Forum: http://www.chron.com/content/hcitalk/index.html
Author: Ed Asher

PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION ORDERED FOR LAWYER AFTER DRUG CONVICTION

A federal judge on Friday halted a sentencing hearing for a Houston lawyer
who represented himself in his drug trial and ordered a psychiatric
evaluation of the man.

The judge made the decision about an hour into the hearing for J. Brent
Liedtke, who was convicted of conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine in
March after a five-day jury trial.

Federal prosecutor Robert Stabe said U.S. District Judge Nancy Atlas wanted
the evaluation "to help her in considering sentencing options" for Liedtke,
who is now represented by attorney Robert Fickman.

Fickman said Atlas' decision was based on her "observations of Mr. Liedtke
as well as information from family members indicating that Mr. Liedtke may
suffer from an undiagnosed condition."

Liedtke's behavior in the courtroom did appear peculiar, observers said. At
various times he appeared indifferent, bored or amused. He often smiled broadly.

At one point, he yawned as Fickman argued for leniency.

After about an hour, Atlas called the attorneys to the bench for a conference.

About 15 minutes later, she asked Liedtke to approach the bench as well.

She talked to him for about five minutes before announcing that she was
postponing sentencing.

Liedtke was partially successful in defending himself.

He convinced the jury to return "not guilty" verdicts on a racketeering
charge and another drug-related charge.

Prosecutors alleged that Liedtke conspired with a former client and another
person to manufacture the illegal drug.

He could be sentenced to a term of up to life in prison on the conspiracy
conviction.

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