A man charged with causing the death of two friends in a hit-and-run incident in Yaxley was judged not fit to plea today (Thursday).
The decision was made upon hearing that Richard Frost, 38, of Dorset Avenue in Chelmsford, Essex, would need hospital treatment.
Supported by two psychiatric assessments, Judge David Farrell QC adjourned the hearing and ordered that Frost be transferred to an appropriate unit within two weeks.
Speaking at Cambridge Crown Court, Judge Farrell said: “He clearly needs the treatment so he is fit and then he can have his trial.”
Judge Farrell also requested that he be kept updated about Frost’s progress, before a directions hearing, scheduled for June 5, takes place.
Frost was arrested following a collision on January 3 in which Thomas Fletcher, 19, and Thomas Northam, 22, both from Yaxley, died.
Frost, who appeared via video link wearing a grey t-shirt, is charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, two counts of dangerous driving, one count of causing actual bodily harm, and one count of common assault.
A provisional trial date has been set for September 18.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here