 A doctor has ruled that a Bemidji man accused of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a child in Bemidji is competent to stand trial. That's according to a report published on the CARE 11 website. According to that report, the doctor filed an opinion on December 20th stating that in his opinion, Jacob Kinne is able to understand the legal proceedings against him and possesses the ability to consult with counsel and participate in his defense. Kinne's defense team is challenging the ruling in a hearing scheduled for January. In October, we reported that Judge Sherry Schlechter granted a motion allowing Kinne to be examined by doctors to determine whether he is competent to stand trial. A previous petition filed by the defense noted changes in Kinne's behavior, including weight loss and an inability to speak or perform other functions. The petition said Kinne had lost 60 pounds and speculated that he may have had a stroke. Kinne was brought into the courtroom by wheelchair during his last court appearance. Authorities believe Kinne kidnapped a five-year-old girl last June from a mobile home in Bemidji. The mobile home burned to the ground and a woman was found dead inside the home. Kinne is accused of taking the girl to a camper near Big Fork and sexually assaulting her before she was found alive by police. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland news, please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.