Psychiatric Tests Ordered For Hazel Park Man Charged In Woman's Death
HAZEL PARK (WWJ/AP) - A judge has ordered that a Detroit-area man charged in the death of a 21-year-old woman undergo psychiatric tests.
Jordan McClanahan of Hazel Park is charged with first-degree murder and mutilation of a body in the death of 21-year-old Jessica White of Troy. Investigators say he lived in the home where White's body was found May 3, nearly two weeks after she was reported missing.
A judge on Tuesday ordered tests for criminal responsibility and competency. The judge said he expected having back psychiatric reports within 60 days.
It's alleged that McClanahan strangled White with a belt, cut off her fingertips, wrapped her in a tarp, and put her in an attic storage area adjacent to his bedroom.
White's mother told police she hadn't heard from her daughter since early in the morning of Saturday, April 23, when she received a cryptic text about an argument between McClanahan and his father.
When questioned by detectives at this home, McClanahan admitted that White had been there, but claimed she'd left to visit someone in the 7 Mile and John R area in Detroit — setting off a search by police and volunteers in that area.
When her body was discovered, McClanahan allegedly admitted to killing White. At his arraignment, McClanahan told the judge that had taken Oxycontin as well as Xanax, and was drinking alcohol on the night of White's death.
Police have not discussed a possible motive, but said the two had been friends since high school. White's mother told People Magazine that McClanahan was "obsessed" with her daughter and wanted to date her. "He would want to hang out with her all the time," she told the magazine.
When White was reported missing, McClanahan actually reached out to her mother, she told the magazine, offering to help search for her. "I really care about you guys," McClanahan reportedly wrote in a text message.
On his Facebook page, where White appears in many photos with McClanahan, he describes himself as "the most mellow and understanding guy you will meet, until you screw me over."
In his About Me blurb, McClanahan continues: "I hate drama people that can't talk about problems face to face like an adult. I love to have a good time and am easily amused and love girls with tattoos."
His chosen favorite quote, attributed to Damon Pope: "Revenge is never about the greater good; it's a visceral need that has to be satisfied or the strong lose focus."
McClanahan faces up to life in prison without parole if convicted as charged.
TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
