A woman accused of attempting to murder the singer Rihanna has been ordered to undergo a mental health competency evaluation before her case can move forward in court, according to a report by Billboard.
Competency evaluations are a standard legal tool used when there is reason to question whether a defendant can understand the charges against them and participate meaningfully in their own defense. A judge cannot proceed with a criminal trial until a defendant has been found competent to stand trial.
The details of the alleged plot against Rihanna and the identity of the accused were reported by Billboard, which noted the court's decision to pause proceedings pending the psychiatric assessment. The outcome of the evaluation will determine what legal steps follow.
If a defendant is found not competent to stand trial, they are typically referred to a mental health facility for treatment until competency can be restored, at which point the case may resume. If found competent, the case proceeds through the normal court process.
No date for the completion of the evaluation had been reported as of the Billboard article.
