Man accused of killing postal carrier appears in court

<br>TULSA, Okla. (AP) _ Federal prosecutors are still trying to determine if a Tulsa man accused of killing a postal carrier as he was making his rounds should undergo a mental evaluation. <br><br>Jason

Wednesday, December 19th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) _ Federal prosecutors are still trying to determine if a Tulsa man accused of killing a postal carrier as he was making his rounds should undergo a mental evaluation.

Jason M. Weed said he understood the first-degree murder charge against him in a court appearance Tuesday before U.S. Magistrate Sam Joyner.

But federal Public Defender Paul Brunton said a doctor retained by the defense is still trying to evaluate Weed's mental condition.

Weed, 27, is accused of killing Robert W. Jenkins, 30, of Broken Arrow as Jenkins was delivering mail Dec. 12 at Place One apartments in Tulsa.

Weed is charged in U.S. District Court under a statute that governs the murder of federal employees who are engaged in their official duties.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Doug Horn said he is still considering whether to ask for a mental competency exam, which generally would take anywhere from two to four months.

In determining whether a defendant is competent to stand trial, the court would focus on the ability of the accused to understand the charge and to assist in his or her defense.

Weed acted irrationally and walked down a street firing a gun into the air before being arrested, police have said.

Horn asked Tuesday that Weed remain in custody while the case is pending.

The defense waived its right to a hearing on the motion.