1. In felony cases where the circumstances surrounding the commission of the offense or other circumstances brought to the attention of the court indicate a strong likelihood that the defendant is suffering from a mental disease or disorder, and the court desires more detailed information about the defendant’s mental condition before making an authorized disposition under section 557.011, it may order the commitment of the defendant for mental examination.

2. The court may commit the defendant to a facility of the department of mental health or to a hospital and order the defendant examined by such person or persons as the court or that department or hospital may designate. The cost of guarding and transporting any confined defendant to and from any such facility or other place of examination shall be borne by the county. Any commitment shall be for a period not exceeding thirty days unless extended by the order of the court.

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3. Within forty days after the order the person or persons making such examination or examinations shall transmit to the court a report thereof including answers to any specific questions submitted by the court. The clerk of the court shall immediately supply copies of the report to the prosecuting attorney and to the defendant or his attorney.

4. Any period of commitment to a facility of the department of mental health or to a hospital for the purpose of this section shall be credited against any term of imprisonment imposed upon the defendants.