Bluefield man with hoax bomb deemed “not competent” to stand trial

BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Bluefield man who brought a hoax bomb to the Elizabeth Kee Federal Building last August was set to appear in court on Tuesday, April 5, 2023.

Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney Brian Cochran tells Lootpress that James Fowler, 50, of Bluefield, WV, was deemed “not competent” to stand trial.  According to Cochran, this means Fowler will remain at Sharp Hospital unless, and until he is restored to competency.  “If he is restored to compettency, then his trail at that time would be set by the court.”

Fowler was charged with manufacture and explosive device, terroristic threats, and a false bomb threat.