Man accused of driving SUV into Woodfield pleads not guilty, will get mental health exam

Javier Garcia, 23, faces terrorism and criminal damage to property charges.

The Palatine man charged with driving his SUV into Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg last month entered a not guilty plea Thursday before Cook County Judge Joseph Cataldo in Rolling Meadows Third Municipal District.

Javier Garcia, 23, faces terrorism and criminal damage to property charges related to the Sept. 20 disturbance.

Cataldo agreed to a request by Garcia’s attorney, Frank Avila, for a mental health examination for Garcia. The judge also ordered Garcia be evaluated at Cermak Health Services, the Cook County jail medical center.

”My client has a mental issue,” Avila said.

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