Judge Ordered Psychiatric Evaluation in 2008 Murders
A Concord judge has ordered a mental health exam to determine if Johnny Steven Talbert is competent to stand trial.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Crime — General
Judge Martin McGee has ordered a psychiatric evaluation for 46-year-old Johnny Steven Talbert. The exam will determine if Talbert is competent to face charges in the 2008 murders of two employees at the Sun Drop Bottling Co. plant in Concord.
Why it matters
The evaluation follows a defense motion highlighting communication difficulties that may prevent the defendant from assisting in his own legal defense. Establishing competency is a standard constitutional requirement for a criminal trial to proceed fairly.
Johnny Steven Talbert, 46, faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of armed robbery. He is currently awaiting transport to the Butner campus of Central Regional Hospital for the court-ordered evaluation.
The players
Johnny Steven Talbert
He is a 46-year-old man currently charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of armed robbery.
Martin McGee
He is a judge in the Cabarrus County Superior Court who is presiding over the criminal proceedings.
Cynthia Everson
She is the defense attorney who filed the motion questioning the defendant's ability to stand trial.
The details
Defense attorney Cynthia Everson requested the assessment after noting Talbert suffered from scattered thoughts. The suspect was arrested in Port Angeles, Washington, after Concord police obtained a warrant in May 2026 for the 2008 incident involving victims Donna Barnhardt and Darrell Noles.
Timeline
The murders of Donna Barnhardt and Darrell Noles occurred in 2008.
Concord police obtained an arrest warrant for Talbert in May 2026.
Judge Martin McGee ordered the psychiatric evaluation on October 13, 2026.
Legal Context
This psychiatric evaluation follows the standard judicial procedures used when a defendant's mental state is raised as a barrier to prosecution. Such motions are common in cold cases where significant time has elapsed since the underlying crime occurred.
This hearing clarifies the current status of a long-standing homicide investigation for the Concord community. Residents can expect further court updates once the psychiatric assessment is completed at the state facility.
The takeaway
The court must resolve the defendant's competency before any trial or sentencing can occur. Legal experts emphasize that these evaluations are essential to ensure the accused understands the charges and can participate meaningfully in their defense.
Further reading
For more updates on local legal proceedings, visit the Crime — General section.
