A federal judge on Tuesday ordered a psychiatric evaluation for the man accused of setting off a bomb near at Atmos Energy natural gas station in Plano in June.
Anson Chi must undergo the evaluation before his case can proceed.
Documents filed by Chi's defense attorney, Brook A. Busbee, say her client "has a delusional mindset." She said she believes mental illness has and will keep Chi from properly assisting in his defense.
Busbee asked the court to evaluate Chi's mental competence.
Chi's parents attended Tuesday's pretrial hearing. When leaving with friends, they wore masks to cover their faces.
If convicted of possession of an unregistered firearm or explosive device, Chi faces 10 years in prison.
The next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 7.
