Christian Costello, the man charged with first-degree murder in the stabbing his father, Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Mark Costello, appeared in court Friday morning and waived his right to a preliminary hearing. He has pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors had planned to present evidence before Special Judge Lisa Hammond, who would determine whether a crime was committed and if there was probable cause the younger Costello committed it.
Costello’s family has said their son Christian suffers from mental illness. The Associated Press reports defense attorney Bob Ravitz said Costello is now appropriately medicated, and that "this tragedy shows a breakdown in our mental health system."
The Oklahoman’s Kyle Schwab was in the courtroom, and reports Costello’s mother Cathy was not present:
Ravitz also said a doctor has examined Christian Costello but he hasn't received "all the results at this particular time." Christian Costello was calm and mostly quiet while in front of the judge. His ankles, wrists and waist were shackled. Other than saying his name and the frequent "Yes, Ma'am/No, Ma'am" to the judge, he remained mostly silent.
Mark Costello died August 23 outside an Oklahoma City fast food restaurant. Prosecutors say Christian Costello attacked his father with a knife.
Hammond scheduled a pre-trial hearing for May 25.
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