Psychologist to testify at pretrial hearing for defendant in 3 Alexandria slayings
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A psychologist is expected to testify about some of the bizarre behavior of a man charged with killing three Alexandria residents in their homes over a 10-year span.
A pretrial hearing for Charles Severance of Ashburn is scheduled for Thursday morning. Prosecutors say Severance, a former Alexandria resident with a history of erratic behavior, shot and killed three prominent city residents dating back to 2003.
A judge will hear testimony from psychologist William Stejskal (STAY'-skel). Defense lawyers say Stejskal can explain some of Severance's bizarre behavior to jurors, including his attempt to seek asylum at the Russian Embassy and journal entries glorifying murder.
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Prosecutors say the testimony is irrelevant because Severance is not making an insanity defense.
A jury trial is scheduled for next month.