The trial for Brian Walche, accused of killing his real estate agent’s wife, has been delayed to evaluate his mental competence following an incident in prison.
Originally set for October 20, this trial centers on the alleged murder of his 39-year-old wife, Anna Walche, in 2023. Disturbingly, parts of her body were reportedly severed, though they have not been found.
On Monday, Judge Diane Freniere from Norfolk County approved a request from the defense for Walche to undergo a mental competency evaluation. He will be sent to Bridgewater State Hospital for 20 days for this assessment, as per court documents.
Walche’s attorney, Larry Tipton, contended that his client has suffered mentally and physically after being stabbed in prison last month, arguing that this trauma affects his ability to participate in the trial adequately. Tipton remarked in court documents that although Walche has made efforts to prepare for his defense, the ongoing impact of the violent assault hampers his capacity to work with his lawyers effectively, particularly as the complex trial approaches.
Prosecutors countered, stating there is no evidence indicating Walche is mentally unfit for trial, claiming he could have returned to prison the same day he was attacked.
A hearing to assess Walche’s trial fitness is scheduled for October 27, but no new trial dates have been set yet.
Walche, who resides in Cohasset, has entered a not guilty plea to charges of first-degree murder, misleading investigators, and concealing his wife’s body. The couple has three children.
Surveillance footage allegedly shows him purchasing multiple cleaning supplies at Home Depot, including mops, brushes, and goggles, which prosecutors believe were intended for body disposal.
Investigators reportedly discovered a hacksaw with bone fragments in a trash can close to Walche’s mother’s residence. Additionally, it’s claimed he used his son’s iPad to search online for methods of body disposal.
Moreover, Walche purportedly hired a private investigator to look into suspicions of Anna’s infidelity prior to her disappearance. Their relationship had faced challenges, particularly after he was placed on house arrest for allegedly selling counterfeit Andy Warhol artworks.
