Murder Charges Against Boy, 9, Are Dismissed

Second-degree murder charges were dismissed against a 9-year-old Charlotte boy after authorities concluded he was incompetent to stand trial in the strangling of his 5-year-old brother two years ago.

A forensic psychologist found the boy did not understand the seriousness of the charges against him and was unable to assist his attorney in his defense, the boy’s court-appointed attorney said.

The body of 5-year-old Joseph Lewis was found in an apartment building swimming pool on July 6, 1999. An autopsy concluded he did not drown. The attorney for the boy, who was 7 at the time, says he denies strangling his brother but has given conflicting statements.