Murder suspect turns down petition
Murder suspect Dwayne M. Sibetang has turned down a petition that seeks to involuntarily commit him to a 14-day psychiatric treatment in an off-island medical facility.
Mr. Sibetang, a pretrial detainee accused before the CNMI Superior Court of a first degree murder charge for the slaying of a Chinese non-resident worker last year, suffers from organic personality disorder caused by a lead pellet embedded in his head when he accidentally fired an airgun and hit his right eye when he was eight years old.
In response to the filed petition, the defendant through counsel Robert T. Torres contended that the Commonwealth should be required to account for Mr. Sibetang’s welfare while off-island through weekly progress reports to the Court as well as to the counsel.
Mr. Torres pointed out that mental facility must be specifically identified and evaluated as to whether it is appropriate for such placement.
The defense lawyer added that upon Mr. Sibetang’s return, he should be placed in the Commonwealth Health Center so long as he remains involuntarily committed by the court so that he is properly cared for and no further harm befalls him.
Mr. Sibetang has been receiving care and treatment from Dr. Anthony Bottone of CHC while he has been detained at the Central Male Detention facility under the Division of Corrections.
The defendant had previously requested for an off-island treatment in lieu of adequate medical facilities in the Commonwealth.
According to court documents, at all times since the murder suspect’s plea for treatment he has voluntarily requested and received the services.
His counsel added Mr. Sibetang stands ready, is willing and able to submit to continued care and treatment.
In answer to issues of cost, Mr. Torres also asserted that it is incongruous of the Commonwealth to complain of having to spend money to send the defendant off-island because of its own negligence.
He added that if the court were to insist on Mr. Sibetang’s involuntary commitment despite his willingness to comply with an order for off-island treatment, the defendant would require that the government designate the appropriate forensic facilities that can treat, test, and care for the patient in need.
