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Judge Finds Poole Competent in Koza Killing as Dakes’ Trial Is Set for June 2026

The competency ruling allows the court to take up prosecutors’ request to try the two 18-year-olds together.

Overview

  • Anne Arundel Circuit Judge Stacy McCormack ruled that Jonah Poole is mentally competent to stand trial following a state evaluation.
  • Kylee Dakes waived her right to a speedy trial, and the court scheduled a two-week jury trial for June 8–22, 2026.
  • Prosecutors are seeking a joint trial for Poole and Dakes, and the judge is expected to decide on that request in upcoming proceedings.
  • Both defendants remain held without bail on charges including first- and second-degree murder, assault, conspiracy and arson in the death of 67-year-old Edward Koza.
  • Investigators cite extensive evidence such as a knife sheath found near the register, a video recorded on a suspect’s phone, DNA, cellphone data and exported Snapchat chats, with ATF and the fire marshal assisting.