Judge allows exam of man accused in case in which trooper was hit

Kim Smith

Friday, May 11, 2001 | 10:30 a.m.

Las Vegas Justice of the Peace Ann Zimmerman this morning agreed to allow two independent psychologists to examine the man accused of strangling a local prostitute and running over a Nevada Highway Patrol trooper.

At least one psychologist has already said that Vornelius Phillips isn't competent to stand trial in the case, but confirmation of his competency is needed, said Deputy District Attorney Robert Daskas.

The results of the examination will be revealed at a hearing May 24, at which time Daskas said he will also be notified as to whether the Clark County Public Defender's Office will represent Phillips.

The public defender's office may not be able to represent Phillips because it once represented a witness in the case, Daskas said.

Phillips is accused of running over Trooper Robert Kintzel as the trooper was laying down spikes on U.S. 95 in an effort to stop Phillips during a high-speed chase.

According to police, Phillips stole a cab with a Maryland tourist inside it at McCarran International Airport on April 21 and led police on the chase.

Joan Lewis apparently jumped out when Phillips refused to stop and let her out, police said. Lewis is recovering from her injuries at University Medical Center,

Phillips is also a suspect in the death of Ivy Shunstrom, whose body was found after the trooper was hit.

Daskas said Lewis could be released from the hospital as early as this weekend.

Kintzel, who underwent brain surgery, is in critical but stable condition at UMC.