Meth suspect's hearing delayed

SANDPOINT — A self-described transient accused of operating one of the largest methamphetamine labs found in the state this year might not be competent to stand trial.

Bonner County Chief Public Defender Hugh Nisbet told the court on Wednesday that Gilbert Allen Gulick does not understand the nature of the charges against him and is unable to assist in his own defense.

Without objection from the prosecution, Judge Justin Julian put off Gulick's preliminary hearing and ordered a psychiatric evaluation.

Gulick, 64, is charged with trafficking meth via attempted manufacturing, a felony. He is also awaiting trial on a charge of violating a court order barring him from contacting his wife.

Authorities said they discovered the portable meth lab on June 5 on property in the 800 block of Pup Paw Trail, a private road in the Snow Valley area north of Priest River. Deputy Prosecutor Jim Stow and Sundance Drug Task Force agents say it was one of the largest meth labs found in Idaho this year.

The lab components were found in a Rubbermaid storage container while Sheriff's deputies were investigating the alleged no-contact order violation, according to court documents.

Gulick, a former resident of Troy, Mont. who describes himself as homeless in court records, is being held at the Bonner County Jail in lieu of $250,000 bail.