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Suspect in Ashanti Billie case to continue mental health treatment at federal facility

New court documents reveal details about Eric Brown's mental status. Brown is the man accused of abducting Ashanti Billie from JEB Little Creek in September.

NORFOLK, Va. (WVEC) — New court documents reveal details about Eric Brown’s mental status. Brown is the man accused of abducting Ashanti Billie from JEB Little Creek in September.

The 19-year-old was later found dead in North Carolina.

Questions about Eric Brown's mental status are what put the Ashanti Billie case on hold. 13News Now was first to report doctors at a Federal Medical Center are treating Eric Brown for mental health issues.

READ MORE: Judge allows extension on Eric Brown's mental competency evaluation

A judge ruled Brown is not competent to assist in his own defense or stand trial. Now, new court filings show psychiatrists believe Brown is responding to medication. Because of that, Brown has met with his psychiatrist and officials have loosened his restrictions, according to court documents. He's now allowed more time outside of his cell and in common areas of the housing unit at a North Carolina facility.

Though court documents said Brown continues to have some 'auditory hallucinations and paranoia,' the report states "there is substantial probability" Brown will "demonstrate that he is competent to stand trial after an additional 120 days" of treatment.

No later than February 18th, the director of the facility in Butner, North Carolina will let the court know whether or not Brown has fully regained competency. Proceedings in the abduction trial should move on from there.

RELATED: National 'Ashanti Alert' bill passes the U.S. House

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