Brian Walshe, a Cohasset man charged with the murder of his wife Ana, has been declared competent to stand trial by a Norfolk Superior Court judge. Following a 40-day mental health evaluation at Bridgewater State Hospital, the court received a report from Dr. Ryan stating that Walshe is able to face the charges, according to WHDH.
Despite the defense’s requests, Judge Diane Freniere denied motions to move the trial or select jurors from outside Norfolk County. The judge noted that media coverage had been extensive and “somewhat graphic,” but determined it was “primarily factual” and that the defense had not demonstrated a presumption of prejudice, as per CBS News.
The court is proceeding with the trial. Jury selection is scheduled to begin next week following a pre-trial hearing on November 17, with opening statements expected to start on December 1. Defense attorney Larry Tipton told the court that Walshe is concerned about the impact of moving from Bridgewater State Hospital to the jail, but the judge noted that while an adjustment period is expected, trial dates must be maintained.
The disappearance of Ana Walshe on New Year’s Eve 2023 prompted a criminal investigation, with prosecutors alleging that Brian Walshe conducted online searches related to disposing of a body and was later seen purchasing cleaning supplies. The defense has argued that the alleged searches were obtained illegally and raised concerns about the mental health impact of a violent assault Walshe experienced in jail. The trial is scheduled to proceed, and Ana Walshe’s body has not yet been recovered.
