Commonwealth v. Cruzado

In 2009, the defendant's 2006 convictions of unarmed robbery as an habitual criminal and assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon were affirmed on direct appeal. See Commonwealth v. Cruzado, 73 Mass. App. Ct. 803 (2009). Thereafter, the defendant filed multiple motions for new trial, claiming that: (1) his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to properly investigate and pursue a mental health defense; (2) the judge erred in failing to hold a hearing on the defendant's competency; and (3) the defendant was denied his right to a public trial. On appeal, the defendant claims error…