A judge has ruled that Bradford James Gille, the man accused of stabbing 11 people at a Traverse City Walmart on July 26, is currently incompetent to stand trial.
Court officials determined that while Gille understands the charges, his delusional thinking prevents him from assisting in his defense in a rational way. Forensic experts testified that he suffers from psychosis and paranoid delusions that distort his perception of reality.
The ruling does not end the case. Gille will now undergo psychiatric treatment at the Michigan Center for Forensic Psychiatry in Saline. Doctors will attempt to restore his competency with medication and hospitalization.
Next steps ordered by the court
• Six months of treatment and psychiatric care
• Periodic evaluations to determine if competency can be restored
• If restored, criminal proceedings will resume
• If not restored within 15 months, the court may pursue institutionalization or civil commitment
Gille faces one rare state terrorism charge and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. All 11 victims survived the attack thanks to the quick actions of bystanders who stopped the stabbing spree.
The case is on hold until doctors decide if Gille can be made fit for trial.
