By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
LINCOLN PARK — Whether a 43-year-old man accused of murdering his sister will stand trial will await further evaluation.
According to court officials, a competency examination Tuesday for Gerald Eugene Dennis Jr. was adjourned by 25th District Court Judge Michael Ciungan after a defense request for an independent examination. The competency hearing to determine if Dennis understands the charges against him and is capable of participating in his own defense will be heard July 10.
Dennis was charged with first-degree murder for the Feb. 28 homicide of his sister, Deborah Seifert, 53, with whom he lived in the 1500 block of College Avenue. Police responded to an early morning call from a woman who found Seifert unresponsive and bleeding; Seifert died shortly after at Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center.
Police and prosecutors allege that Dennis beat Seifert to death with an automobile jack handle. Dennis reportedly suffered a history of mental illness and drug abuse. Dennis told police he’d been abused by his sister, which family members reportedly confirmed.
Dennis remains in custody without bond, and faces up to life in prison if tried for and convicted of first-degree murder.
(James Mitchell can be reached at [email protected])