Transgendered woman faces murder trial

A judge in Ventura, Calif., has ruled that transgendered murder defendant Jamie Cid is mentally competent to stand trial for the death of an elderly man she allegedly robbed and then killed. After reviewing reports by two doctors, superior court judge Roland Purnell decided Tuesday that Cid understands the charges against her and can assist in her own defense. A court-appointed doctor said Cid is mentally competent, while a defense doctor claimed that Cid has gender-identity issues and psychological problems. A defense lawyer filed a competency motion last month after Purnell ruled that Cid could not wear a dress during the trial, a decision that angered the defendant. Cid, 31, of Ventura pleaded innocent to the March 2000 beating death and robbery of Jack Jamar, 78, inside Jamar's home. Jamar allegedly knew Cid through the city's prostitution circles, police said. Cid has claimed self-defense, saying Jamar attacked her. Prosecutors say the motive was robbery. Jury selection is expected to begin some time next week.