A forensic psychologist for the Crown took the stand Monday at the Mark Dobson murder trial in Barrie.
The trial has been examining whether Dobson, who is charged with two counts of first degree murder, was of sound mind when he killed two women in a Barrie hotel room in 2012.
On Monday, Dr. Percy Wright told the court that Dobson did not suffer from a psychotic disorder when he killed Mary Hepburn and Helen Dorrington.
“He knew the actions were legally wrong and viewed as wrong by society,” testified Dr. Wright.
Dr. Wright interviewed Dobson twice last year and concluded that Dobson suffered from a personality disorder.
Wright testified that Dobson “appreciated the quality of his actions…because he knew what death was. That was the goal and his behaviour was going to bring death.”
Dr. Wright also testified that Dobson insisted he was hoping to be found not criminally responsible by reason of mental illness, and that Dobson described having symptoms related to schizophrenia.
In addition, Dr. Wright made it clear that people who are suffering from a psychotic disorder do not typically describe things the way Dobson did.
Three doctors who testified for the defence have all diagnosed Dobson with schizophrenia.
The defence has been arguing that Dobson should not be held criminally responsible for his actions.
Both sides will make their closing statements on Thursday.
After that, the judge will decide Dobson’s fate.
