A man charged with setting a car on fire at a West Palm Beach water treatment plant was in court Tuesday morning.
In an emotional hearing, the suspect, Douglas Ellington, broke down and cried while his wife spoke to the judge about his charges.
Ellington's wife asked for a mental health evaluation for her husband, and the judge granted the request.
The judge and prosecution expressed concern that a mental health issue could be the reason why the former city employee is charged with multiple recent arrests, including a bomb threat Monday in Riviera Beach.
The judge decided to have Ellington return to court on Friday after having the mental health evaluation. He will go to mental health court on Friday.
Ellington's wife believes her husband may have overdosed on Adderall before his actions Monday.
City administrator Jeff Green asked the judge for a no contact order for Ellington and all city employees and facilities. The judge agreed with Green's request.
Ellington faces charges of second-degree arson and two counts of making a bomb threat in connection with Monday's incidents.
NOW: Ellington makes first appearance. City manager says he wants no contact order, concerned for safety @WPTV pic.twitter.com/ty4vvD8K5D
— Andrew Ruiz (@AndrewNRuiz) March 1, 2016
Wife says an overdose on adderall may be to blame. @WPTV
— Andrew Ruiz (@AndrewNRuiz) March 1, 2016
