Smothering suspect called competent to stand trial

A Costa Mesa man charged with trying to smother a 91-year-old convalescent home resident as he slept is scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday after the courts decided he was mentally competent to stand trial.

Joshua Matthew Drougas, 18, was initially charged on Feb. 21 with premeditated and deliberated attempted murder, elder abuse, and residential burglary. Drougas’s first arraignment was postponed after the defense raised the issue of his mental competence to stand trial. That set in motion psychological reviews of Drougas by court-appointed and defense experts.

On July 26 the court found Drougas able to stand trial, meaning he understands the proceedings against him and can aid in his defense, according to court records. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years to life in prison.

Authorities do not believe Drougas knew or interacted with the resident before the incident. Police said the resident was not hurt.

— Kelly Strodl