A man who police say broke into a southern Michigan apartment and attacked his ex-girlfriend with a sword is expected to get a mental health exam.

The Battle Creek Enquirer reports defense lawyer James Sauber said Tuesday he'll request the examination next week for 35-year-old Anthony Whitlock of Battle Creek. Whitlock is jailed on charges including assault with intent to murder.

Sauber says that the evaluation is necessary in part after Whitlock said God told him to attack the woman.

Battle Creek police say the 35-year-old woman was cut Jan. 12 with a 3-foot (1-meter) sword. Police say their 13-year-old son intervened, pushing his father away and attempting to stab him with a kitchen knife.

Police say the woman is recovering, but that she lost a thumb and two fingers.

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Information from: Battle Creek Enquirer, http://www.battlecreekenquirer.com