LE MARS, Iowa (AP) – An attorney for a man charged with first-degree murder in the killing of his mother says his client suffers from mental disorders preventing him from understanding the case against him. The Sioux City Journal reports public defendant Billy Oyadare is seeking a hearing to determine if Jonathan Neunaber is competent to stand trial in the death of his mother, 80-year-old Esther Neunaber. Her body was found last July with the body of her husband Donald Neunaber. She was beaten to death. He died of natural causes.

Oyadare says a psychologist has stated 45-year-old Jonathan Neunaber suffers from mental disorders preventing him from appreciating the charges, understanding the proceedings or assisting in his defense. Neunaber was arrested in July. He’s pleaded not guilty.