The woman accused in a violent home invasion that ended with police fatally shooting the homeowner has been deemed competent to stand trial.
On Wednesday, District Judge Christy Craig ruled that 31-year-old Alejandra Boudreaux is able to understand the charges against her and assist in her defense. The decision came after a competency evaluation in which two doctors found her competent and one disagreed.
Boudreaux was indicted in December on multiple charges, including home invasion with a deadly weapon, assault with a deadly weapon constituting domestic violence, child abuse or endangerment, and fourth-degree arson. The case stems from a November incident in which Brandon Durham, 43, called police to report that Boudreaux had broken into his home. Durham was later shot and killed by Metropolitan Police Department officer Alexander Bookman during the response.
Defense attorney Alzora Jackson did not contest the judge’s ruling, telling the court she also believes her client is competent. Jackson declined to discuss Boudreaux’s medical diagnosis but said she has been working closely with her client to build trust. “She’s lovely, absolutely delightful,” Jackson said after the hearing.
The competency ruling means Boudreaux’s case can now move forward toward trial. Prosecutors are expected to present evidence of the alleged break-in and subsequent confrontation, while the defense will prepare to challenge the charges.
The incident has drawn significant public attention, not only because of the unusual circumstances of a homeowner being killed during a police response, but also due to the serious allegations against Boudreaux. Community members have raised questions about how the situation escalated and whether Durham’s death could have been prevented.
Legal experts note that competency rulings are a critical step in criminal proceedings, ensuring defendants can meaningfully participate in their defense. The case will now proceed through pretrial motions and hearings before a trial date is set.
Authorities have not released further details about the police shooting, which remains under internal review. Meanwhile, Boudreaux remains in custody as her case moves forward.
