Judge Rules Homicide Defendant Incompetent to Stand Trial for Roommate’s Murder

Thank you for reading Baltimore Witness. Help us continue our mission into 2024.

A 59-year-old man was ruled mentally incompetent to stand trial by Judge Gale E. Rasin on Oct.30.

Patrick Cromwell, 59, is charged with first-degree murder and dangerous weapon with intent to injure for allegedly killing his roommate, 77-year-old Joseph Barraco.

During Wednesday’s hearing, Judge Rasin mentioned Cromwell was diagnosed with schizophrenia and taking antipsychotic medication.

He allegedly drank toilet water to save his imaginary girlfriend from overdosing on heroin, and slept on the floor, fearing a bullet would come through the window.

Defense Attorney Steven Silverman said he believes Cromwell is a danger to himself and others and that he should get treatment as soon as possible. Cromwell is still in custody.

According to the Maryland court records, the hearing was continued, and Cromwell’s next hearing was scheduled for April 9, 2025.