Defendant deemed competent to stand trial in 2009 slaying

A 2009 homicide case will head back to court after a nearly two-year suspension while dealing with questions over the defendant’s mental competency.

Criminal proceedings against Rachelle Lynn Hampton were suspended in September 2013 and doctors declared her unfit to stand trial. She was sent to Napa State Hospital for treatment. Proceedings were reinstated June 30 after it was determined she is once again competent to stand trial, according to attorneys involved in the case.

Hampton, 43, has pleaded not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity in the death of 84-year-old Savino Herrera Baiz, who was found shot to death July 23, 2009, in his home at 7614 Fairlane Ave. in Winton. Hampton had been staying with Baiz and an argument broke out when he tried to force her out of his home, authorities have said.

Hampton was also deemed unfit to stand trial in August 2009 and was hospitalized for more than a year. She returned to face the murder charge again in 2011. The case has also been delayed several times to allow defense attorneys to collect Hampton’s psychiatric records, authorities said.

According to court documents, when investigators asked Hampton if she killed Baiz, she replied that it was possible. She also claimed she was a forensic specialist employed by the FBI with the ability to reattach decapitated heads.

Hampton’s mental health status remains somewhat uncertain.

Walter Wall, the deputy district attorney prosecuting the case, said Hampton was returned to Napa State Hospital this week where she will stay until her next court appearance. Wall confirmed doctors believe there was a “likelihood” Hampton’s mental state would deteriorate without consistent supervision from state psychiatrists.

“She’ll be returned here when it’s time for the trial,” Wall said.

Judge Ronald W. Hansen ordered Hampton to return to court Sept. 18 for further proceedings. A trial date is expected to be scheduled at that time, according to court records.

Earlier this week, Hampton received a new court-appointed attorney. Veteran conflict public defender Thomas Pfeiff will represent Hampton going forward. Pfeiff said he would need time to evaluate the case.

This story was originally published July 14, 2015 at 6:51 PM with the headline "Defendant deemed competent to stand trial in 2009 slaying."