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Mom who kept adults captive fit for trial

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- A Philadelphia woman accused of imprisoning four mentally disabled adults in her basement was found mentally fit to stand trial, attorneys said Wednesday.

Linda Ann Weston's lawyer, George Yacoubian Jr., called the finding of competency a "close call" and said she may be re-evaluated as the case proceeds, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

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Weston was evaluated by a psychiatrist at the request of her lawyers who said she had trouble understanding the severity of the charges against her. Yacoubian said Weston is mentally retarded and exhibits signs of paranoia.

Weston and three others are charged with kidnapping and other offenses. Police said they think she was keeping the vulnerable adults captive to steal their Social Security benefits.

Weston will begin receiving psychiatric care while she awaits trial, the Inquirer said. She has been on suicide watch since her arrest last month.

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