Joe Gentz back in court to determine if he is competent to stand trial in Bashara murder case

(WXYZ) - Dressed in a gray suit, Joe Gentz appeared in court Monday afternoon for a hearing to determine whether he is competent to stand trial in the murder case of Jane Bashara.

The defense attorney in the case requested an independent evaluation. The judge granted the request and scheduled another hearing for July 23 at 1:30 p.m.

Gentz’s attorney, Susan Reed said she wanted to make sure her client is competent before she proceeds with negations with the prosecutors.

In late January, the body of 56-year-old Jane Bashara was found in the back of her SUV.  The Grosse Pointe mom had been strangled.

Gentz served as a handyman for Jane’s husband Bob Bashara. 

There have been several conflicting reports about what exactly happened at the time of the murder.

Gentz has alleged Bob Bashara hired him to kill Jane Bashara. 

Bob Bashara denies those allegations.

Since Gentz faces a conspiracy charge in addition to First Degree Murder, Reed would not comment specifically on the type of plea deal she would aim for.

“Usually with a conspiracy there are two people involved,” said Reed.  “But as you know at this point there is only one person who has actually been charged.”

Reed as well as police have not said or identified the implied second party.

Gentz is currently locked up at  William Dickerson Detention Facility in Hamtramck. Reed added recent reports of Gentz having outbursts inside the facility have been blow out of proportion.

“He seems to be doing very well,”  said Reed.”  “You saw him in court.  Of course he’s nervous, of course he’s anxious because he is involved in this type of case but I think he’s handling it as best he can.”