The murder case of James Handy, an 81-year-old British actor, has taken a new turn after a judge ruled that the man accused of his murder is not mentally competent to face court proceedings. Judge Maria Cavalluzzi made the ruling in Los Angeles Superior Court, citing that Michael Gledhill, 44, does not currently understand the charges against him and cannot properly assist his attorney in building a defence.
Handy, known for his roles in 'Jumanji' and 'Top Gun: Maverick', was found unconscious outside a home in June 2023 with a stab wound to his chest. Police arrested Gledhill after he allegedly told officers that he was the person they were searching for, and claimed 'I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.'
Gledhill has not entered a plea and has not formally appeared in court on the murder charge. The case was referred for a mental health evaluation after a scheduled arraignment, and it has now been put on hold as Gledhill undergoes further evaluation and treatment. Judge Cavalluzzi also ruled that Gledhill could not make appropriate decisions regarding medication and authorized involuntary medication for up to one year based on a psychiatrist's recommendation.
The judge ordered Gledhill to return to court on July 14 for a hearing on his long-term placement. Friends of Handy have spoken about Gledhill's relationship with the actor, who was his partner's son and had lived in a converted garage at her home. Handy maintained his own residence but spent significant time there, according to longtime friend and fellow actor Brian Delate.