Suspect in rapper Julio Foolio’s killing prepares for ‘possible insanity defense’
Video above: Julio Foolio murder suspect captured in Jacksonville SWAT standoff
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The attorney for one of the suspects allegedly involved in the killing of rapper Julio Foolio in Tampa is preparing for a “possible insanity defense,” according to online court records.
A motion filed Nov. 19 in a Hillsborough County court is asking for a confidential forensic neuropsychologist to be appointed to examine Rashad Murphy, who was taken into custody in July after an hours-long standoff in Jacksonville.
Murphy is one of several suspects charged in the rapper’s death.
“Cases involving NGI — Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity, are very complicated,” attorney Daniel Hernandez wrote in the motion. “The doctor sought has been involved with several NGI cases over their career. One is required to complete a comprehensive report on the Defendant.”
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Hernandez wrote that an “extensive” clinical interview, along with psychological and neuropsychological testing, is required.
“An NGI case such as this, should be treated just like a death penalty case,” Hernandez wrote. “The State will seek highly qualified clinicians to prove their side and will compensate them accordingly. The Defense should be treated in the same fashion.”
The attorney said the forensic psychologist has previously been approved for $300 per hour plus $125 for travel with a $15,000 cap, which would be paid for by the state of Florida.
A judge had not ruled on the motion as of Thursday evening.
Murphy faces several charges, including premeditated first-degree murder.
Police believe Jones was trying to get a room at the hotel after he was kicked out of an Airbnb while celebrating his 26th birthday.
Three others were wounded in the shooting.
This story includes reporting by Rachel Tucker, Georgia McCarthur and Jeff Patterson.
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