NewsKansas City Public Safety

Actions

Justin Rey's attorney says he is not competent to stand trial due to 'mental condition'

Posted at 3:15 PM, Nov 24, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-24 20:28:15-05

JOHNSON COUNTY, Kan. – The attorney representing Justin Rey, the man accused of dismembering his wife's body, is asking for a psychological evaluation to determine if Rey is competent to stand trial.

Courtney Henderson filed a motion in Johnson County court, saying he has "good faith belief" that Rey is unable to understand the charges against him.  

Henderson goes on to say Rey is not able to "effectively assist in his defense due to a mental or physical condition," based on Rey's demeanor while discussing the legal proceedings of the case.  

Rey was found living with his newborn and toddler in a Lenexa storage unit, along with his wife’s remains, which were in two coolers.  

Police said Rey claims Jessica Monteiro Rey died in childbirth at a Kansas City, Missouri, hotel room.  

According to court documents, Rey kept her body in the room for two days before dismembering it in front of their children.  

Rey is currently in jail in Johnson County, where he faces child endangerment charges.  

In Jackson County, Rey is charged with abandonment of a corpse and child endangerment.  

Rey is also charged with murdering a man in California, and could be extradited.