FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — A man suspected of vandalizing the Islamic Center of Fort Collins may seek alternatives to prison meant for those with mental illness.
The Coloradoan reports Joseph Giaquinto’s attorney said Tuesday she is considering referring him to the Eighth Judicial District Wellness Court.
Wellness court is an option for defendants who have a severe and persistent mental illness.
People referred to wellness court receive therapy and psychiatric treatment and undergo supervised probation instead of serving jail time.
Giaquinto faces charges of felony criminal mischief and misdemeanor bias motivated crime, or a hate crime, in connection with the March incident. Investigators say he admitted to throwing rocks and a Bible through the Islamic Center’s glass doors, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Giaquinto will appear in court again Sept. 8.
