Murder trial of Cedar Rapids man on hold pending mental evaluation

CEDAR RAPIDS - A judge has ordered a mental evaluation of a Cedar Rapids man charged in the fatal stabbing of Shanna Beyhl.

Sixth Judicial District Judge Marsha Bergan ruled Friday there was probable cause that Bobbie Little, 32, has a mental disorder. Little is charged with first-degree murder.

Little's trial was set for Dec. 15, but the trial will be removed from the court docket and further proceedings suspended until a psychiatric evaluation at the Iowa Medical and Classification Center in Oakdale can be conducted.

Sarah Hradek and Tyler Johnston, Little's lawyers, asked the court for the evaluation based on Little's mental health history and the fact that he has a disorder that would prevent him from understanding the proceedings and assisting effectively in his defense.

Little has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder, Bergan said in her order. Hradek had concerns she believes were not covered by a psychologist who evaluated Little in the Linn County Jail. Hradek also had concerns about Little's intelligence, which combined with the mental disorder appears to prevent him from assisting in his defense.

Beyhl, 37, was found dead in her apartment, 228 Jacolyn Dr. SW, on April 4. According to an autopsy, Beyhl was stabbed multiple times in the neck and abdomen.

Little initally was charged with second-degree theft for allegedly trading or giving away items belonging to Beyhl, including her television and a gaming system.