MANCHESTER, NH—A highly anticipated trial has entered a controversial phase after the defendant, an inanimate and non-living AR-15, was found incompetent to stand trial for the crimes with which it is charged. This so-called "assault rifle" was charged as an accomplice to a shooting that occurred in late 2018. Although it has been largely speculated that the brunt of guilt falls on the alleged shooter, one Derek Fowler, public outcry has been swift and brutal in calling for the indictment of the metal-and-plastic object's alleged role in the crime. Whereas it appears that the AR-15's attorneys initially intended to offer a defense of having been under the full control of Fowler, and having no actual ability to impede or encourage the shooter's actions, given that it is made of non-organic material. However, the question of competency to stand trial arose on Thursday of this week when it was unclear whether the firearm possesses the ability to communicate with its counsel, comprehend the charges made against it, or make relevant decisions regarding the trial. Indeed, the defense went so far as to call into question whether the defendant has sensory organs that would allow it to receive information in some form, or even traces of a central nervous system. The judge agreed that, in the interest of due process, it is appropriate for the AR-15 to undergo a psychiatric evaluation to assess whether it possesses the capacity to function knowingly and meaningfully in its defense. The prosecuting attorneys objected to the evaluation, calling it unnecessary given the video footage of its role in the crime. The prosecution believes that its involvement in such a heinous crime is enough evidence of making conscious decisions and evaluating consequences of its actions. The defense counter-argued that the rifle was merely manipulated by Fowler into its role in the crime, and, although it was present at the scene, was under the volition of the shooter and unable to prevent the manner in which it was used. The trial is currently on hold as the AR-15 is subjected to multiple interviews with a psychologist. These tests will largely assess the firearm's intelligence, ability to plan and make decisions, and understanding of the legal system. At this point, they do not directly address whether the AR-15 should be held culpable for the crimes of which it is accused. As is usual practice in these cases, should the AR-15 not be found competent to continue with the trial, it may be held in a psychiatric hospital while medications are administered to restore competency. However, the defense is likely to object to such practices under the contention that their client does not have a digestive or circulatory system through which such medications could be administered. Protesters worry that, should the rifle ultimately not stand trial for this disturbing crime, full culpability will then fall on the person who actually planned and carried out the shooting with a clear motive and criminal intent.