Hudson Falls arson case on hold as psychologists look at defendant’s mental health

The case against an accused arsonist in Washington County is on hold as state psychologists figure out if he’s able to assist in his own defense.

Peter Lemery was charged with setting fire to an apartment building where he lived on Maple Street in Hudson Falls. The October 3 fire destroyed the building, leaving seven families without a place to stay.

At the time of his arrest and arraignment, Lemery acted irrationally in court, giving several different names, and telling the judge that the charges were “B.S.”

NewsChannel 13 has learned that a psychiatric exam determined that Lemery is not currently capable of assisting in his own defense, and he is being held in the custody of the state Office of Mental Health.

Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan is hopeful that Lemery will return to police custody and the prosecution can continue, he told NewsChannel 13.