A judge has ordered a mental competency evaluation for a man charged in a 2020 McAlester murder case.
Court records show Deraje Jackson, who is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Dustin Parker, will undergo the evaluation in Pittsburg County following concerns about his present competency and mental health, under the order of Judge Brian McLaughlin.
According to court documents, the order was filed on Thursday, April 16.
The order directs that Jackson be evaluated by a forensic examiner through the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to determine whether he is able to understand the charges and assist in his defense.
Court records state the criminal proceedings in the case have been suspended pending the outcome of that evaluation.
A status hearing on Jackson’s competency has been scheduled for May 29 at 9 a.m.
To see the initial arrest story for Jackson, click here: https://mcalesterradio.com/2026/03/23/6564/