Murder suspect's defense given more county funds for investigation

While lawyers continue to await a report on murder suspect Martin Green's mental fitness to stand trial, his attorney Monday received another $2,000 in county funds to pursue an investigation into the Fox River Grove man's psychological history.

A McHenry County judge agreed to award the additional $2,000 - on top of $3,000 in county money allocated in February - after Green's lawyer, Henry Sugden, said his private investigator needed it to speak with additional people familiar with his client's mental condition.

"He's got three more people to talk to and then he can wrap it up," Sugden said.

McHenry County prosecutors took no position on whether the court should award Green's defense the additional funding.

Green, 26, of the 100 block of Gladys Avenue, faces six counts of first-degree murder alleging he used a hammer to beat his stepmother to death Feb. 11. Authorities say Green killed Patricia McNamara, 52, in the family home a short time after his father told him he either needed to straighten up his life and seek help for ongoing psychological issues or he would be kicked out of the house.

Sugden previously has hinted that he might pursue an insanity defense if the case goes to trial. Shortly after the slaying, Green's family issued a statement indicating he had a long history of battling mental illness.

But first, both sides are awaiting a report from psychiatrist Albert Snipes that will help determine whether he is mentally fit to stand trial. In order to be fit, a defendant must understand the criminal proceedings against him and be able to help in his defense.

Sugden indicated he expects to have the report back in time for Green's next court date, May 10. Until then, Green remains in custody at the county jail on $5 million bond.