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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Saturday, November 21, 2009

Ruling expected next week on whether alleged Maui spy able to stand trial


By HERBERT A. SAMPLE
Associated Press

HONOLULU — The competency hearing of a Maui man accused of spying for China has ended with the prosecutor claiming the defendant is difficult to work with and makes wild exaggerations but is legally able to stand trial.

But at federal court on Friday, lawyers for Noshir Gowadia contended their client has a mental defect that renders him unable to assist in his defense.
Expert witnesses for both sides agree Gowadia suffers from narcissistic personality disorder. They disagree on whether it is so severe that he cannot stand trial.
Gowadia was arrested in 2005 on suspicion of selling cruise missile secrets. He has pleaded not guilty to 21 counts of conspiracy, money-laundering and falsifying tax returns.
A ruling is expected in the next week or so.