Woman, 19, accused of stabbing 6-year-old to undergo psychiatric assessment

A 19-year-old woman accused of attacking a young boy on a downtown Halifax street has been ordered to undergo a psychiatric assessment to determine her fitness to stand trial on a charge of attempted murder. Elliott Chorny appeared via video in Nova Scotia Provincial Court on Thursday morning from jail, where she has been in custody since her arrest on Feb. 23, following an incident in which a six-year-old boy was stabbed on Barrington Street near Scotia Square Mall. Chorny is also facing a weapons charge due to her alleged use of a knife in the attack.

Chorny’s Legal Aid lawyer, Kelly Rowlett, informed Judge Alonzo Wright that she has combined an earlier assault charge Chorny was facing with the current charges, so that both matters can be addressed together in court. The previous assault charge dates back to Jan. 27 when Chorny allegedly attacked a psychiatrist at the Halifax Infirmary.

Rowlett expressed doubts that the psychiatric assessment will be completed before the next court date, indicating that an extension of time may be necessary. In the meantime, Chorny will remain in custody. Family members of Chorny were present in court for the brief hearing.

Following the stabbing incident, Chorny’s mother, Andrea Hancock, publicly shared her struggles in seeking help for her daughter prior to the recent incidents. The family’s presence in court highlights the support system surrounding Chorny during this challenging time.

The integration of Chorny’s legal proceedings and mental health evaluation underscores the complex nature of the case. As the legal process unfolds, it is crucial to consider the mental health aspects in order to ensure a fair and just resolution. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.