APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A man convicted of killing his grandparents is still not mentally competent to be sentenced in the case.
Alexander Kraus, 19, previously guilty to two counts of first-degree intentional homicide for shooting Dennis and Letha Kraus on April 14, 2019, at their Grand Chute home. A jury determined while Kraus suffered from a mental disease or defect, he could still had the capacity to appreciate his actions were wrong and could have conformed to the law. He faces two automatic life sentences, with a judge to determine if or when Kraus will be eligible for parole.
After the verdict and before sentencing, however, Kraus’ attorneys said his mental condition had deteriorated, and another psychiatric review was ordered. Kraus was found not competent to proceed, meaning he couldn’t understand the proceedings and/or assist in his own defense. Since then, the criminal case has been hold.
During a hearing Thursday, defense attorney Britteny Koenig noted the last evaluation was dated Nov. 10, before Kraus arrived at the Mendota Mental Health Institute, and said Kraus is not competent to proceed. The next review is scheduled for mid-February, she said.
Once that report has been submitted, the court will schedule another hearing, Judge Mitchell Metropulos said Thursday.
