A Lorain man accused of stealing a LifeCare SUV during an emergency call has been found incompetent to stand trial, with a judge ordering treatment in an effort to restore his ability to face the charges.
Lorain County Common Pleas Judge Donna Freeman ruled on April 3 that Tristen Wyatt, 21, is currently unable to assist in his own defense, according to court records. The ruling pauses the case for now.
Court documents state Wyatt is “presently incapable of assisting in his defense,” but also note there is a “substantial probability” that he can be restored to competency with treatment. The decision was based in part on a psychiatric evaluation completed by Dr. Sara Abell in March.
Wyatt has been ordered to undergo treatment at Northcoast Behavioral Healthcare, where he may remain for up to six months or until the court determines he is competent to proceed.
The case stems from an incident on January 23, 2025, when LifeCare crews responded to an emergency call in the 2600 block of West Erie Avenue. While first responders were on scene, Wyatt is accused of getting into a LifeCare Ford Explorer SUV and driving away.
According to police, officers pursued the vehicle and stopped it at the intersection of Jaeger and Leavitt roads, where Wyatt was taken into custody.
Jail records show Wyatt was formally booked in the early morning hours of January 24, 2025, following the incident. He was charged with failure to comply with a police officer and grand theft of a motor vehicle, both felony offenses.
Court filings indicate Wyatt entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity in March 2025, and his attorneys requested a competency evaluation shortly after. The court granted that request, leading to multiple evaluations and delays throughout the case.
In January 2026, court records show Wyatt refused to be transported for a scheduled pretrial hearing, and additional proceedings followed as the case continued.
A subsequent court order in February directed that Wyatt be transferred for an inpatient evaluation once a bed became available. Records indicate he was transported to the Northfield facility in March.
The April 3 ruling formally found Wyatt incompetent to stand trial but eligible for treatment aimed at restoring competency. The court will receive updates on his condition, including whether he becomes able to proceed or if further action is required.
The case remains open and will move forward if Wyatt is later deemed competent to stand trial.
