Geissler Presents Mental Illness Defense

Not guilty by reason of mental illness.

That’s the motion being put forth by the attorney for Kenneth “Val” Geissler, who is awaiting trial for soliciting prostitution to a female minor and other charges.

The Cody Enterprise reports the motion for leave of the court was approved April 5 in Park County District Court, which allows the 79-year-old to undergo a medical examination.

Geissler is facing felony charges that carry a penalty of up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine. Geissler has also pleaded not guilty to accusations that he forcibly kissed the girl, which is a misdemeanor that could mean up to six months in jail and a $750 fine.

Geissler pleaded not guilty to the crimes in November, but broke his bond conditions in February when he was twice seen attending the Cody Cowboy Church with a 16-year-old female.

No date has been set yet for a hearing on the mental illness plea, as the court must wait for the findings of the doctor in Montana. At that point, Judge Bill Simpson will decide whether or not to accept the plea.