A Somers Point man accused of setting a home on fire while the residents slept was released from jail Wednesday, and ordered to seek mental help.
Faith Tompkins, 18, was ordered held Tuesday.
Howard was "undergoing severe mental health issues at the time," attorney Durann Neil argued.
He "was seeing things and hearing things," Neil said. "`He clearly was undergoing psychosis. He thought people were working with the government to kill him."
Howard's release was recommended by the public safety assessment used to help determine whether a defendant is released under bail reform. It indicated he had no criminal history.
As a condition, Howard must seek psychiatric help within 48 hours of his release.
He will undergo a psychiatric evaluation and follow whatever is recommended, Neil told BreakingAC.
Howard had no prior history of mental illness or criminal activity, Neil said
It was not clear why the home in the 100 block of West Dawes Avenue was targeted.
"My client and the girl had no real ties with the alleged victims at all," Neil said.
Tompkins is accused of driving Howard around as they got supplies, including the gasoline and bottles to hold it in. She also allegedly drove him to and from the home.
NOTE: The Atlantic County Justice Facility does not release mugshots under an order from the previous prosecutor.
