Mark Pavelich
Following a closed court hearing on Monday, November 25, former New York Ranger and Miracle on Ice hockey star Mark Pavelich’s fate rests in Judge Michael Cuzzo’s hands.
Pavelich, 61, Lutsen, was arrested on August 15, 2019, for beating a friend, James Miller, with a metal pole after the two came off the lake from fishing. Pavelich had accused Miller of spiking his beer before assaulting Miller, who ended up with two cracked ribs, fractured vertebra, as well as bruises and marks on his arms and legs.
During his August court appearance, Pavelich was charged with four felony counts, and second- and third-degree assault. Additionally, he was also charged with having an illegally shortened shotgun whose serial numbers had been filed off.
Judge Cuzzo ordered Pavelich to undergo a mental health evaluation, citing, “There is reason to doubt competency.”
Following the second hearing in October, prosecutors called Pavelich a “significant risk to public safety.” Judge Cuzzo found that Pavelich was incapable of participating in his defense “due to mental illness or deficiency,” and placed the criminal case on hold.
After that second hearing, Cook County Social Services petitioned the court to have Pavelich committed to the state as “mentally ill and dangerous,” which led to the hearing on Monday.
In 2012, Mark Pavelich lost his wife Kara, who died after falling off the couple’s second story deck. A couple of years later he sold his gold medal at auction for $250,000.
While many of his 1980 Olympic teammates capitalized on their fame, Pavelich instead has led a quiet life. He has spent much of his time fishing and hunting and taking care of his investments in property.
On Monday, Judge Cuzzo listened to the testimony of two psychologists who had examined Pavelich and reviewed his history. Attorneys then argued whether Mark Pavelich should be found “mentally ill” or “mentally ill and dangerous.”
Judge Cuzzo will now decide which diagnosis to follow. If Pavelich is considered mentally ill, he will receive treatment for a year with a possible extension of six months. Once released, he could be tried for the alleged crime he committed to Miller.
Should Pavelich be ruled mentally ill and dangerous, a report will be filed within 60 days, and a judge would review the case. A determination would then be made for indefinite commitment.
After Monday’s hearing, Judge Cuzzo told attorneys he would try to make his ruling by early next week.
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