Double murder suspect to receive mental health evaluation

BRAWLEY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - A defense attorney is seeking a mental health evaluation for the man accused of murdering a married couple in their Brawley home.

Brandon Hamlin appeared in court for the third time for a pre-trial conference Tuesday.

His defense attorney requested more time for the evaluation.

The senior deputy district attorney agreed and explained what happens next.

"Defense doesn't have to tell us as the prosecution agency what their ultimate goal is. Whether they're seeking diversion, whether they're seeking mental health treatment, or whether it’s going to be part of a plea. What they are doing right now is that they are getting a doctor to evaluate the dependent to see what next steps they can take," explained Senior Deputy District Attorney Margaret Tafoya.

Hamlin is charged with murdering 78-year-old Elia Castro and 84-year-old Rigoberto Castro by stabbing them multiple times.

Hamlin is still being held in jail without bail.

He'll be back in court in September.