Lawyers Push for Release of Alabama Teen Accused of Aiding Terrorist
Lawyers of an Alabama teenager accused of assisting a terrorist act want a $1 million bond reduced for the release of their client.
Al.com report that court documents state lawyers for 19-year-old Payton Jack Pruitt entered a plea of not guilty by reason of mental defect. Pruitt’s lawyers are arguing their client was not capable of understanding his actions, saying a mental evaluation shows he should have his bond reduced.
Pruitt was arrested and charged with soliciting support for a terrorist act.
Court documents on July 29 show that Pruitt’s lawyers say a psychological evaluation of their client in May stated he has a “mental defect.”
Pruitt’s attorney, James Gallini, says he is waiting for a response from St. Clair County District Attorney Richard Minor, who had no comment.
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