The State - News from May 13, 1987

A prosecution psychologist said he agrees with defense experts that convicted con man Ronald McIntosh suffers from post-traumatic syndrome related to his Vietnam War experiences. McIntosh, 42, and his prison girlfriend, convicted bank robber Samantha Lopez, 37, are defending themselves on escape and hijacking charges arising from their helicopter escape from the federal prison at Pleasanton. They contend that McIntosh’s judgment was impaired by continuing stress that began during the war and that Lopez’s life had been threatened by guards at the prison. Allegations concerning McIntosh’s mental condition were reinforced by testimony offered by UCLA psychiatrist George Solomon, hired by the prosecution, who said McIntosh seems to have a “Swiss-cheese conscience,” feeling guilt for some offenses and not others, and that this may be a side effect of the war-induced stress.