Expert witness at center of debate in upcoming Roberts trial

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The man soon to face trial in the murder of a Chattanooga businessman was back in court Friday afternoon.

Darryl Roberts is charged with first degree murder in the September 2023 shooting death of Christopher Wright.

Patten Towers surveillance footage of the last few moments a man identified as Darryl Roberts walks up to Chris Wright and shoots him in the head, killing him.

Video shown at his preliminary hearing showed the two men had an altercation in front of Patten Towers leading to a man identified as Roberts pulling out a gun and shooting Wright at point blank range.

Friday was a pre-trial motions hearing.

The main issue heard was whether or not an expert witness to be brought in Roberts’ defense would be allowed at trial.

The defense said this expert diagnosed Roberts with post traumatic stress disorder.

The prosecution contends that they were not given proper notice of the witness and questioned the relevance of the expert, leading to a back and forth debate.

Defense attorney Steve Smith argued, “If we read it, read the case like the state intends, that would obviate psychological, psychiatric help for any case for anything, unless the psychologist or psychiatrist found that the defendant didn’t have capacity. That’s not what the law is.”

Judge Boyd Patterson says he wants the expert to testify before the jury is selected to maintain a level playing field for both sides.

Roberts’ trial will begin on April 1st.