By Andy Furillo
afurillo@sacbee.com
A judge has suspended criminal proceedings of a woman accused of murder in the shooting death of a man outside a Rancho Cordova convenience store.
According to Sacramento Superior Court records, Lizbeth Colon, 27, pulled out a sawed-off shotgun and blasted Rene Mejia Cruz, 25, in the upper torso in the early-morning hours of Sept. 28, 2008, apparently in a disagreement over cigarette money.
Judge Joseph Orr on Monday suspended criminal proceedings against Colon and ordered her committed to Patton State Hospital for the rest of her life or until she is able to understand her case and assist in its defense.
The judge's decision came after Colon had been examined by three doctors, the court records said.
Defense attorney Linda Parisi had sought the doctors' evaluations.
"The proceedings are so serious that it's really not fair for the person who, as a result of psychological issues, can't concentrate on their case and can't help their lawyer in preparing for their defense," Parisi said today.
Deputy District attorney Shari Greco did not object to the defense request or the judge's ruling.
If Colon is restored to competency, she will be returned to Sacramento to stand trial.
Call The Bee's Andy Furillo, (916) 321-1141.









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