Teen held in fatal stabbing of brother waives hearing

Jahmir Ricks' steadfast demeanor in court yesterday suggested that the 13-year-old had made a brave decision for the sake of his mother: He wasn't going to cry.

When she and a dozen other family members burst into weeping, he was still.

When she reached over the barrier separating the courtroom gallery from the proceedings, he remained composed.

He simply turned his head in acknowledgment, pushed out his bottom lip and nodded.

Ricks waived his preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge John J. Perfetti in Upper Darby yesterday in connection with the slaying of his 16-year-old brother, Antwan, at their Lansdowne home on Sunday afternoon.

The fight started over whose turn it was to use a video-game controller, and ended when Ricks used a 6-inch steak knife to stab his brother to death, police said.

Perfetti ordered that Ricks be held without bail at the Delaware County Prison until he is formally arraigned in Common Pleas Court by Judge Frank T. Hazel on Aug. 23.

Chubby and cherubic, Ricks' age suggests that what he knew about fratricide came, at best, from cartoon fables like that of Scar and Mufasa, rival brothers in "The Lion King."

Jahmir's mother, Christine Ricks, writhed throughout her son's proceedings. On her arm, a faded tattoo of a tiger cub encircled by the names of her sons - once a symbol of pride - has now become a memorial.

As Ricks was led from the courtroom without the chance for a hug or a touch from his mother, Christine Ricks again broke down.

"I can't even see my son," she said.

Outside the courtroom, Ricks' public defender told his family that they'll be able to see the teen during prison visiting hours.

Defense attorneys have ordered a psychological evaluation for Ricks, according to courtroom testimony.

Delaware County Deputy District Attorney Daniel McDevitt said he expects the defense to file a petition to get the case moved to Juvenile Court. When the petition is filed, prosecutors will respond accordingly, he said.

"This is a very unique situation for the prosecution and the defense," McDevitt said.

"We're just going to answer any questions they [the family] have and keep them informed of the progression of the case." *