Cass County murder trial on hold

The murder trial for a man believed to have killed a southwest Michigan couple more than two and a half years ago has been put on hold.  A Cass County judge has agreed to a defense request that 28-year old Keith Lintz undergo an exam to determine if he’s mentally competent to stand trial. Defense Attorney Greg Feldman says Lintz has problems with simple communication, like speaking, may have memory problems and be vulnerable to blackouts. Lintz was arrested last month and charged with two counts of felony first-degree murder in the deaths of 40-year old John Tarwacki and his 39-year old wife Carolyn who were found dead in their home near Niles in February of 2010. Prosecutor Victor Fitz said they identified Lintz as the suspect within a week of the crime. He allegedly stabbed John Tarwacki ten times, shot him twice and stabbed his wife four times, shot her twice and badly beat her about the face. The prosecution is demanding the exam happen in a timely manner, but the judge is not making any guarantees.  (Michigan Radio Network)