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Criminal proceedings were suspended today for an 86- year-old man charged with killing his wife in Mission Viejo when the defendant's attorneys said the client was unable to assist in his defense. William Wiley was charged a week ago with murder, court records show. Wiley is accused of killing Audraine Wiley, who was also in her 80s. Wiley's family members said he has been diagnosed with dementia, according to Carrie Braun, a spokeswoman for the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
A hearing was set for April 29 to consider the defendant's mental health status and his ability to assist in his defense. Two psychologists were appointed to interview and assess Wiley. The criminal proceedings will be suspended until it is determined Wiley can assist in his defense. If the psychologists, one for prosecutors and one selected by defense attorneys, cannot agree on Wiley's capacity to help in his defense, a judge may appoint a third expert to break the tie. Deputies were called to a residence in the 28000 block of Via Arriaga in the gated Casta del Sol retirement community about 1 p.m. March 15 regarding the death of the victim, Braun said.