NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. – The attorney for a Nassau County man accused of a triple murder of his family has filed a notice saying that his client has exhibited signs of incompetence to proceed in the case and is having him evaluated.
Broyles is accused of killing his 57-year-old wife, 27-year-old daughter, and 28-year-old son at their home in Callahan on December 1.
In a court filing from last week, the defense has filed a notice of confidential filing, which usually pertains to mental health issues, along with a written “not guilty” plea to the three counts of second-degree murder.
Criminal defense attorney Shannon Schott, who is not affiliated with the case told News4JAX sometimes the crime itself can indicate incompetency.
“The term is a ‘family annihilator.’ He immediately confesses to what he did allegedly. Looking at this crime, all the signs are adding up to incompetence,” Schott said.
Broyles is currently being held in an isolation cell in the Nassau County Jail and has no access to the internet or a telephone. He is said to be on suicide watch.
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The public defender representing William “Bill” Broyles wrote in the filing he needs “assistance with matters” that are beyond the scope of the public defender’s office.
It’s not clear what matters or circumstances the office is not able to handle, but the defense is asking for another attorney to be appointed.
“The office of the public defender represents people in a criminal defense capacity. The service is unlike a private firm that may be able to aid in more complex matters. (The public defender) is very narrow in what they are able to do and what services they can provide,” Schott said.
If Broyles is found to be incompetent, the trial would be put on hold, and he would be sent for treatment to try to make him competent or involuntarily committed.
It will be up to a judge to make that determination. Broyles is scheduled for arraignment on Dec. 21.