Neurologist testifies at hearing in NM nun's death

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A neurologist who examined a man accused of murdering a nun on the Navajo reservation in northwestern New Mexico says her initial review determined the man suffers from mild to moderate mental retardation.

But Dr. Lan Qui Chin stressed her conclusion about Reehahlio Carroll was only a preliminary analysis, and she has recommended to federal prison officials that Carroll have a full psychiatric examination.

Chin offered her remarks as testimony in a Friday competency hearing to determine if Carroll will stand trial in the death last November of 64-year-old Sister Marguerite Bartz, who served at St. Berard Catholic Church in Navajo, N.M.

Carroll has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and burglary charges.