Attorneys Seek Mental Health Treatment for Slaying Suspect

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Lawyers for a man accused of killing his friend in Sioux Falls early this year are asking that he be committed to a state-run mental health hospital.

Twenty-nine-year-old Mark Lovejoy is accused of killing 45-year-old Rodney Iron Hawk Sr. with his bare hands during an alcohol-fueled fight outside of a motel on Jan. 25.

The Argus Leader reports a psychiatrist in March determined that Lovejoy was not competent to stand trial. His attorneys now want him sent to the state Human Services Center in Yankton for treatment, for no more than four months. A judge did not immediately rule.

Lovejoy is scheduled to stand trial on murder, manslaughter and assault charges beginning July 25. The trial likely will be delayed if he's committed to the state-run hospital.

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