LA Junkie accused of gunning down ‘American Idol’ exec and her husband committed to state hospital ahead of trial for murder
The troubled individual accused of the brutal murder of an “American Idol” executive and her husband in their upscale Los Angeles neighborhood has been ordered to be committed to a state hospital due to his erratic behavior during court appearances.
Raymond Boodarian, 22, has displayed concerning behavior, including a refusal to communicate with his attorney and a lack of response to the court during hearings. Judge Martin Herscovitz noted that Boodarian appeared disconnected and unresponsive during a court appearance in August.
As a result of his behavior, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Maria Cavalluzzi ruled that Boodarian should be committed to a state hospital for mental health treatment. The judge also authorized the involuntary medication of the defendant to address his mental health issues. A bed at the state hospital will be available for Boodarian on January 16, with a follow-up hearing scheduled for March 19.
During a hearing in November, Judge Cavalluzzi highlighted Boodarian’s history of drug use and previous encounters with law enforcement. Boodarian faces serious charges for allegedly using a gun belonging to the victims, Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca, both 70, to fatally shoot them as they returned home from grocery shopping on July 10.
The tragic incident was initially unnoticed, with a neighbor reporting a suspicious individual jumping the fence on the same day. However, it was not until four days later that the couple’s bodies were discovered during a wellness check by authorities.
In addition to two murder charges, Boodarian is accused of murder during a burglary, which could potentially result in the death penalty. Any trial proceedings would require the determination of the defendant’s mental competence.
Robin Kaye, the victim, was known for her role in securing licensing rights for songs featured on “American Idol.” She and her husband lived in a lavish $4.5 million mansion in Encino.
The commitment of Boodarian to a state hospital reflects the seriousness of the case and the need for mental health intervention. The upcoming court hearings will determine the course of action for the accused murderer as he undergoes treatment for his mental health issues.
