Competency exam ordered for man charged in connection with fire at Burlington's Meinhardt Mansion

 

BURLINGTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Nearly two weeks after a historic mansion was destroyed by fire in Burlington, a judge has ordered a competency evaluation for the homeowner.

The competency evaluation was at the request of his own attorney, who conveyed that right from the start, communication with his client has been challenging.

"I have reasons to doubt his ability to assist me in the defense based on my conversations with him," said Patrick Cafferty, defense attorney.

Robert Staton walked into court in a gray sweatshirt; his nephew was there for support.

"I have also had other relatives participate in the conversation and they’re in agreement with me that there’s something that needs to be addressed," said Cafferty.

Prosecutors claim the 65-year-old was drunk Nov. 22 when first responders got called to the much-loved address in Burlington, built in 1883, and known as the Meinhardt Mansion.

Court documents claim the defendant "gave multiple different statements to officers and said just arrest whoever is in there."

Staton and his wife bought the 5,200-square-foot home this summer and were remodeling it. Prosecutors say he was told by a home inspector at least two of the fireplaces should not be used. Staton told CBS 58 he'd been using the fireplaces in this historic home all week.

The fire related charge is a misdemeanor, but because Staton was out on bond on a separate domestic violence charge from September, he was slapped with two felonies for violating the terms of that bond. The judge agreed to allow the now homeless Staton to leave the state without a "SCRAM" unit monitoring his alcohol consumption.

"His sister who lives in Corning, New York is willing to let him stay with her there's also a VA facility nearby where he would be receiving services," said Cafferty.

The three story Meinhart Mansion at Kane and Chandler was originally owned by a local banker and was treasured by many in Burlington.

Staton was ordered to return back to Racine County for his next court appearance in February. Until then he'll be checking in with a VA facility near Corning, New York, to ensure he's alcohol free.