by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Chad Ryan Desoto appeared before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Alberto Tolentino this afternoon and pleaded not guilty by reason of mental illness, disease or defect.

The 21-year-old was indicted last week on 3 counts of aggravated murder and 11 counts of attempted aggravated murder each with a special allegation of possession and use of a deadly weapon in the commission of a felony. Initially there were 12 counts in the indictment but one was removed because a victim's name had been duplicated.

During this afternoon's hearing , Desoto waived his right to a speedy trial. He is scheduled to appear back in court on March 20th to find out when the trial will be held. At that time he will appear before Superior Court Judge Anita Sukola who was assigned the case.

Meanwhile, during today's hearing Judge Tolentino ordered that Desoto undergo a psychological examination within ten days. As we reported KUAM sources have told us that Desoto's toxicology test results revealed negative findings. We have also confirmed that Desoto was moved from the Hagatna Detention Facility to the Department of Corrections compound in Mangilao to be closer to the staff Psychologist who wanted him there for continuous monitoring. DOC officials have told KUAM that Desoto is being held in the medical unit in a cell by himself and is meeting with the psychologist on a daily basis.

Desoto's mother and other family members attended today's hearing. They were swarmed by international media as they walked out of the courthouse. His mother declined to comment to media.

Desoto is accused of driving onto the sidewalk in Tumon near the Globe Night Club on February 12th at a high rate of speed hitting several pedestrians and then crashing into the ABC Store underneath the Outrigger Resort. He then got out the car and started stabbing people. Three people died from his rampage while 11 others were injured. One of the victims is from Guam, while the others were tourists from Japan.