Crookston Murder Suspect Found Mentally Competent for Trial

CROOKSTON, MN (WDAZ-TV) - A Crookston man accused of killing his father in February was found mentally competent to stand trial on Monday.

28-year old Jacob Abel's trial was suspended more than two months for a court-ordered psychological exam.

Abel allegedly stabbed his father Jerome Abel to death in a Crookston apartment on February 5.

Abel has been charged with both first-degree premeditated murder and second-degree murder without premeditation.

His court-appointed attorney says he plans to seek another psychological exam for Abel.

Abel also appeared in court Monday on the charge of fourth-degree assault on a correctional officer, in connection with an incident shortly after he was initially jailed on murder charges.

His next hearing is April 30. Abel is being held on $500,000 bail.

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