Early Psychological Testing Says Drifter Fit for Sexual Assault Trial

Initial tests suggest that Dennis Dodson—a drifter accused of sexually molesting an 83-year-old woman—is mentally fit for trial, according to public defender Camille Bachli.

Dodson, 35, was charged with after he allegedly attacked a Good Samaritan behind the Orland Park Home Depot, where Dodson had been living and had previously threatened an employee.

Dodson, whose rap sheet includes , remained in jail Tuesday on $1.5 million bail. He also has a history of mental health issues and takes psychotropic medication, Bachli said in September when she asked the court to order mental evaluations.

While the defense awaits additional reports from its psychologist, the state has been given time to file requests for HIV testing on the defendant.

Hospital records and reports from the state crime lab were exchanged during the latest hearing on Tuesday.

Another court date was set for Jan. 26, 2012, before Cook County Judge John J. Hynes.