Suspect in teacher slaying deemed mentally fit

SALEM -- A man accused of killing a southern Illinois first-grade teacher after sexually attacking her is mentally fit to stand trial.

A judge in Marion County made that ruling this week in the case of 29-year-old Neil Barrall.

Prosecutors say Barrall admitted driving into 38-year-old Rita "Michelle" Cavaletto in October 2007 as she walked near her home in Walnut Hill, then dragging her into the woods. That's where authorities say he kicked her in the head, sexually assaulted her and stabbed her to death.

Barrall remains jailed and has pleaded not guilty.

Specialists in mental illness testified that Barrall was mentally impaired but disagreed to what extent. The judge says Barrall will have special assistance at trial for his defense.

Prosecutors are weighing whether to still seeking a death sentence.