Royal Oak, MI — Nathaniel Joshua-Olsen Rockwell, the 32-year-old man accused of fatally shooting 65-year-old Gregory Hill at the Devon Park Apartments on July 31, has been bound over to Oakland County Circuit Court on all charges.
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Rockwell is charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Three counts of felony firearm
- Two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon
During a February 20 preliminary examination hearing in 44th District Court, Rockwell waived his right to the exam, clearing the way for the case to move directly to circuit court.
Waiver of Preliminary Exam
Rockwell’s defense attorney told the court that he had discussed the matter multiple times with his client and believed that “any presentation from the prosecution would clearly establish probable cause.”
A preliminary examination is not a trial. It is a hearing where a judge determines whether there is probable cause that a crime was committed and that the defendant committed it. By waiving the exam, Rockwell avoided that hearing and allowed the case to proceed to the next level.
When the judge directly addressed Rockwell to ensure the waiver was knowing and voluntary, Rockwell repeatedly told the court he was “just going to do what he suggests,” referring to his attorney.
The judge pressed further to confirm Rockwell understood he had an absolute right to the hearing and was not giving up his right to a future trial in circuit court. Rockwell ultimately confirmed he understood.
At one point, defense counsel stepped into the exchange and had a direct conversation with Rockwell in open court. The attorney asked him to confirm that they had discussed his rights, that the decision ultimately belonged to Rockwell, and that he understood the legal advice being given. Rockwell answered yes to those questions.
After additional questioning, the judge stated she was satisfied the waiver was knowing and voluntary and accepted it.
Competency Examination Ordered
Immediately following the waiver, defense counsel requested that Rockwell undergo a forensic evaluation related to criminal responsibility.
The court signed an order directing that Rockwell be evaluated at the Center for Forensic Psychiatry. Both the defense and prosecution indicated they would move quickly to get the order to the forensic center so the evaluation process can begin.
The case is now closed at the district court level and will proceed in Oakland County Circuit Court, where further filings related to competency and criminal responsibility are expected once the evaluation is completed.
Rockwell remains held without bond.
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