The public defender for a Starkville man facing sexual battery and weapons charges has requested a mental evaluation for her client.
James Bardwell, Jr., 35, is accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl in September 2017.
Public defender Stephanie Mallette was appointed to represent Bardwell, who was indicted by a Grand Jury on Jan. 5 for possession of a weapon by a convicted felon and sexual battery.
According to Oktibbeha County Circuit Court records, Mallette filed a motion on Wednesday for a mental examination for Bardwell, who she says has behaved erratically after being released on $100,000 bond.
The motion says since his release, Bardwell’s parents have described him as “increasingly paranoid, irrational, and delusional,” making threats against his parents and law enforcement should he come in contact with them.
Mallette says Bardwell carries a hand grenade with him “at all times,” and is never more than a few feet away from a firearm at all times.
During her most recent conversation with the suspect, Mallette told the court he was clearly agitated, paranoid and delusional, giving her reason to believe he may be incompetent to stand trial at this time.
In June 2017, Bardwell was accused of passing a Rock .45 caliber pistol, following a possession of stolen property conviction in 2012.
Bardwell was also convicted of aggravated assault in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court in May 2007.
If convicted of sexual battery, Bardwell could face life in prison, according to Mississippi Code 97-3-95 (1)(d)