Jury to determine fitness of Lisle man accused in stabbing

A Lisle man accused of stabbing a stranger will have his mental fitness determined by a jury.

While it's not uncommon for defense attorneys to seek rulings to determine whether their clients understand the charges they're facing and if they can properly help defend themselves, it is unusual for a jury to make that determination. The fitness trial is slated for Feb. 23, 2010.

DuPage County prosecutors allege 18-year-old Ryne McGovern wandered into a Lisle home uninvited in August 2008 while a party was in progress. McGovern went upstairs and found 19-year-old Robert McGrath sleeping on a sofa and began stabbing McGrath repeatedly, then left.

McGrath suffered wounds to his head and torso, but survived.

McGovern has a history of mental illness, his attorney Brian Telander said. In a videotaped confession to police, McGovern said he "just wanted to kill someone," but didn't target McGrath.

If he's found fit to stand trial, McGovern could face six to 30 years in prison.