Mental evaluation ordered for Lusk
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The defendant, Tristan Lusk, 23, has made an appearance before General Sessions Judge Larry Ross on the charge of especially aggravated kidnapping. His defense is asking for a bond reduction hearing and was given an order for mental evaluation for the former Pioneer football and basketball player. Lusk is being held under a half-million dollar bond.
Police are still unsure what prompted Lusk to take the boy without permission from his home at Westside Manor Apartments Tuesday. Lusk?s only defense thus far has been that he believed he was the actual father of the child. However, the family says his claim is biologically impossible.
According to McMinnville Police Investigator Nicole Mosley, who is heading the case, Lusk arrived to visit the victim?s family with whom he was an acquaintance. Lusk had not been to the apartment recently; however, since he was known by the parents, there was no uneasiness when, during the visit, he went outside to presumably play with the child in the apartment?s courtyard.
The mother was stunned when she saw Lusk leaving the parking lot with her child in his vehicle. Lusk refused to stop despite cries from the mother.
The abduction sent out an all-points bulletin for Lusk and the child. Both were found safely minutes later at Lusk?s parents? home across the county.
Prosecutors say they will wait and see what the mental evaluations reveal before deciding their next step. However, given the unusual crime, prosecutors will likely oppose lower bond. The defense is asking for a reduction because Lusk has no prior criminal record and has family ties to the area.
Lusk is next set for court Aug. 15.