Joshua Lee Morris, 24, is charged with driving in a reckless manner causing death in the July 6, 2014 auto crash that killed his passenger, Marcus McIntosh, 21, in Van Buren Township.
Morris’ probable cause hearing was adjourned 90 days until after a competency test and hearing, as requested by his attorney Murray Duncan.
34th District Court Chief Judge Tina Brooks Green said she was concerned because there was a writ to bring Morris to court, but there is no reason for him to be there.
Attorney Duncan said he was not bringing his client into the courtroom.
Judge Green pointed out he was brought to the lockup at court, but he was not in the courtroom. She said somebody wanted him here. She was told his mother wanted him at court.
Judge Green said she tried unsuccessfully to cancel the writ that would require him to be brought to court.
Prosecutor John Casey said the prosecutor’s office wanted him in court until it looked at the report and then they no longer wanted him in court. They apparently failed to cancel the writ.
“Don’t do this again,” Judge Green said to Prosecutor Casey, noting it was the day before the court session that she tried to cancel the writ.
The fatal accident occurred at 2:10 a.m. when a Chevrolet Malibu driven by Morris was traveling northbound on Morton Taylor Road, just north of Van Born, when Morris lost control of the vehicle and it truck a tree.
Morris was transported by Survival Flight to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital where he was listed in serious, but stable condition. McIntosh, who was in the front passenger seat, was pronounced dead at the scene.
If Morris is found guilty of the charge he could be imprisoned for up to 15 years or pay of fine of $2,500 to $10,000. VBT Detective Mark Buxton is the officer in charge.
Morris was released April 24, 2014 after serving three years in prison on a plea bargain to criminal sexual conduct, third degree. He is considered a habitual offender.