David Gengler of Lakeview — who faces a number of charges stemming from the alleged beating, rape, torture and robbery of a female victim last year — has undergone a psychological evaluation and has apparently been found fit to proceed.
The results of the evaluation are sealed, but when a case proceeds after such an evaluation, it can be assumed that the person was found fit to stand trial.
Gengler’s attorney, public defender Mark Cooper, told Judge Gordon Webb during a session of Baxter County Circuit Court Thursday that he might ask for a hearing on the results of the evaluation. Judge Webb set May 18th as the date for a hearing on the matter if one is necessary.
The 55-year-old Gengler was initially charged with kidnapping and five counts of first-degree battery on June 1 last year. In late June, the more serious charges of rape and aggravated robbery were filed.
Gengler’s problems with the law began when Baxter County Deputies responded to a residence along Greenwood Avenue in Lakeview May 24th of last year and found a badly beaten female victim. Gengler and the then 57-year-old victim shared the residence, according to investigative records.
The victim was lying on the floor by the front door of the residence. At the time of the incident, Baxter County Sheriff John Montgomery said that the victim had marks on her wrists and appeared to have been bound for days. She also had numerous other injuries, including what appeared to be cigarette burns.
Investigators reported finding blood splattered on the walls of the residence and a large amount of duct tape with hair stuck to it on the bathroom floor. A knife and bloody cigarette butt were also found.
The victim was able to make a 911 call requesting assistance. The victim requested an ambulance, but was initially hesitant to say why one was needed. She eventually told the 911 dispatcher that she feared “he will kill me”.
Gengler told investigators that the victim was bipolar and that “she falls all the time”. He has denied inflicting the injuries, holding the woman against her will or having forced sexual relations with her.
Gengler is currently set for trial during the week of August 7th.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI