PORT ANGELES — An Agnew man arrested in February for investigation of arson and assault will undergo a mental health evaluation as part of a civil commitment rather than be prosecuted.
Jonathan E. Delo Jr., 26, of Port Angeles was arrested Feb. 21 on charges of second-degree arson and third-degree assault after he allegedly set fire to an unoccupied RV and tackled a responding firefighter in the Agnew area.
The state Department of Social and Health Services submitted a forensic psychological evaluation on May 25. The case was dismissed without trial last Friday following a competency evaluation. A review hearing was set for July 21.
Delo was referred for an involuntary treatment evaluation on Feb. 22, followed by a review hearing on Feb. 23. Then he was referred for a competency evaluation on March 3.
A May 24 evaluation found Delo was unable to understand the nature of proceedings against him and/or assist in his own defense. As a result, he did not undergo what is known as competency restoration.
Deputies responded the evening of Feb. 21 to an RV fire in the 3000 block of Old Olympic Highway.
According to court records, firefighters on the scene were confronted by Delo, who tackled and punched one of them.
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Reporter Brian Gawley can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 55650, or at brian.gawley@soundpublishing.com.
