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Family of Accused I-96 Shooter Speaks To Suspect In Court

Posted at 5:26 PM, Nov 14, 2012
and last updated 2013-02-20 12:50:53-05

LIVINGSTON COUNTY, Mich- The man accused of shooting at drivers from his own moving car on and around I-96 was in two different courtrooms on Wednesday.

Both judges said they want to take a closer look at the mental health of the accused, 43-year-old Raulie Casteel.

The hearings for Casteel lasted about five minutes in both Oakland and Livingston Counties.  Casteel faces a total of 66 felony charges in both of those counties, including multiple attempted murder charges.

In Livingston County, Casteel was brought into the courtroom wearing shackles on both his wrists and ankles.  His family filled the front row of seats in court.

The brief hearing consisted of both sides waiving the preliminary hearing and the judge ordering a competency hearing take place.

His mental health was first questions earlier that day by an Oakland County Judge.  Casteel’s defense attorney said they are opposed to the forsenic mental health exam but would not say why.

After the hearing, as Casteel was being led back to jail a family member said, “Hang in there Raulie.”  Casteel said, “I will.” Another family member then said, “I love you.”

FOX 17 asked Livingston County prosecutor David Morse how long the mental health test usually takes.  We were told they should have the results back within 60 to 90 days.

Until the results come back, the court proceedings will be put on hold.

If convicted on the most serious charges, Casteel could face life in prison.