Prosecutors want Exam of Alleged Coach Shooter

Mark Becker, 24, of Parkersburg, has been charged with first degree murder in the shooting death of Ed Thomas.

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Aug 26, 2009 at 11:46 AM CST

Story Updated: Aug 26, 2009 at 11:46 AM CST

IOWA CITY (AP) - Prosecutors have requested their own psychiatric evaluation of a man charged with killing an Iowa high school football coach.

Prosecutors filed documents Wednesday seeking the evaluation of Mark D. Becker, who faces first-degree murder charges in the shooting death of Aplington-Parkersburg coach Ed Thomas.

On Tuesday, Becker's lawyer filed documents stating that a psychological evaluation found Becker was not competent to stand trial.

Prosecutors have scheduled another evaluation for Friday, pending the court's approval.

The prosecutors also called for a competency hearing on Sept. 8 or Sept. 9.

His trial is scheduled for Sept. 15 in Butler County.

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