VINTON COUNTY, Ohio (TNND) — The father accused in Ohio’s so-called “House of Horrors” neglect case involving 16 children reportedly asked a court to determine whether he is mentally competent to stand trial.
Ohio ‘House of Horrors’ father seeks mental competency evaluation: report (WSYX)
Gary Siders Jr.’s attorney filed a motion on Friday requesting a psychiatric evaluation, arguing that his client’s competency should be examined before the case proceeds, according to PEOPLE.
The lawyer, R. Lee Roberts, also asked the court to allow supporting documents to be filed under seal, saying they contain sensitive information about Siders’ mental health, per the media outlet.
“Defendant’s competency to stand trial has been raised, and the documents at issue concern Defendant’s present mental condition and request for psychiatric examination,” Roberts wrote in the motion, according to the outlet.
Siders, as well as his wife, Elizabeth Siders, alsong with his parents, were arrested after authorities executed a search warrant at their Vinton County home on June 30. Investigators said they found 16 children, ranging in age from 18 months to 18 years, living in filthy conditions.
Ohio ‘House of Horrors’ father seeks mental competency evaluation: report (Photo: Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail)
Authorities described many of the children as developmentally delayed and in need of medical care.
Gary Siders Jr. faces 16 felony counts of child endangerment, as well as four misdemeanor public indecency charges in a separate case. He pleaded not guilty and remains jailed on a $300,000 bond, while a hearing on the misdemeanor charges was postponed until August 13.
The 16 children remain in state custody as they receive medical, psychological, and rehabilitative care. Ohio officials have committed emergency funding to support their recovery and placement.
“This case continues to reveal the unimaginable conditions these children were forced to endure. I said yesterday that what investigators encountered was pure evil, and the evidence we’ve uncovered since only reinforces that assessment,” Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson previously said in a news release. “Our focus remains on protecting these children, supporting their recovery and ensuring everyone responsible is held fully accountable under Ohio law.”