Royal Oak, MI — A judge has ruled that Samantha Booth is competent to proceed in the murder case stemming from the brutal October 2025 killing of 83-year-old David Graham Ong inside a Sheridan Drive home.
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During a February 20 competency review hearing in Oakland County Circuit Court, Booth’s attorney, James Amberg, told the court, “I think we’re going to consent that my client’s competent.” He confirmed he had reviewed the February 13, 2026 report from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Center for Forensic Psychiatry and agreed with its findings.
The judge formally admitted the report into evidence and ruled Booth competent to move forward in the proceedings.
Emotional Courtroom Appearance
In the video of Thursday’s hearing, Booth introduced herself in a quiet voice. She appeared subdued, at one point wiping tears from her face. Her demeanor was noticeably somber as the competency determination was finalized, a stark contrast to the chaotic allegations that defined the early days of the case.
With competency no longer in question, the case now shifts back to its underlying charges.
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Possible Resolution Before Trial?
Following the competency ruling, Amberg also indicated he would like to discuss a potential resolution with prosecutors before the case advances further.
“I’d like to speak with the people about, you know, if there’s a possibility of resolution now as opposed to down the road,” he said, suggesting it “might be wise” to at least have that conversation.
That comment signals that plea negotiations could be on the table, at least with a willingness from the side of Samantha Booth.
Booth’s next court date is scheduled for March 6.
The Charges
Booth, 35, of Royal Oak, is charged with:
- First-Degree Murder – punishable by life without parole
- Second-Degree Child Abuse
- Felony Assault
- Three counts of Resisting and Obstructing
Prosecutors allege Booth was babysitting a 2-year-old child while the child’s mother and aunt were out of town on October 24 when the events unfolded. Authorities say 83-year-old David Ong went to check on the child after the mother could not reach Booth. Family members later found Ong inside the home, covered in blood.
Police allege Booth also attacked the child’s uncle when he arrived, before fleeing the area. Officers later arrested her after responding to reports of a naked woman “covered in blood.” Investigators said psychedelic mushrooms and marijuana were located in her purse at the time of her arrest.
Ong, known as “Downriver Dave,” was a respected business leader and founder of Acquest Realty Advisors.
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