AUBURN — A 42-year-old Lewiston woman accused of setting a fire that engulfed the porch of her Orange Street home last December may not be competent to face an arson charge.
A pair of experts testified in Androscoggin County Superior Court on Tuesday that Wendy Bryce has mild retardation and has a poor grasp of the charge against her.
“It’s one of the closest calls I’ve had,” said James Moran of Windham, who has conducted dozens of competency and criminal responsibility examinations. Her ability to understand the charges and to make legal decisions will take a patient attorney she trusts, he said.
Brian Ablitz, a clinical psychologist from Lewiston, said Bryce had memory problems and trouble understanding language. She is also illiterate.
Ablitz said he believed Bryce should not be left alone, either to deal with her legal issues, her money or her home.
“I would have safety concerns,” he said.
Justice MaryGay Kennedy listened to the testimony and planned to issue a finding later.
dhartill@sunjournal.com
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