Defendant in Fatal 2016 Stabbing Deemed Competent for Sentencing

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A Baltimore man accused of fatally stabbing Andras Horvath, 73, on Dec. 2, 2016 was ordered to remain confined at a hospital pending his sentencing during a pre-sentencing competency review hearing on Sept. 3.

Christopher Straham, 28, is charged with first-degree murder, possession of a deadly weapon with intent to injure, armed robbery and attempted armed robbery in connection to the incident, which occurred on the 3100 block of Orleans Street. Straham was 19 at the time of the crime.

Following review of a pre-sentencing competency evaluation, Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Gale E. Rasin ordered Straham to remain at his hospital through his sentencing on Sept. 9.

Defense attorney Sharon Bogins, standing in for Koryn High, noted that Straham’s case was previously sent to a review panel following his failure to comply with medications administered by his assigned healthcare providers. A prior evaluation also found that Straham “wouldn’t do well in the community” at his detention center.

Judge Rasin ultimately found Straham competent to attend his scheduled sentencing hearing, which will be overseen by Judge Jeannie J. Hong