<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=192888919167017&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">
Sunday,  May 5 , 2024

Linkedin Pinterest
News / Nation & World

Psychologist testifies at Loughner hearing

The Columbian
Published: September 27, 2011, 5:00pm

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — A psychologist has taken the stand at a hearing to determine if the Tucson shooting rampage suspect will spend more time undergoing psychological treatment.

Dr. Christina Pietz is treating Jared Lee Loughner at the Missouri prison facility where he has spent the past four months.

She testified Wednesday in a federal courtroom in Tucson that Loughner was devastated when he was told of his schizophrenia. She says he “didn’t want to be mentally ill.”

The 23-year-old Loughner sat expressionless with his lawyers and quietly listened to Pietz’s testimony. He looked thin and pale and was wearing a white T-shirt and khaki pants.

Two federal marshals stood behind him.

A judge will decide at the hearing whether it’s likely Loughner can be made competent to stand trial. He’ll also consider prosecutors’ request to extend Loughner’s stay at the Missouri facility by another eight months.

Support local journalism

Your tax-deductible donation to The Columbian’s Community Funded Journalism program will contribute to better local reporting on key issues, including homelessness, housing, transportation and the environment. Reporters will focus on narrative, investigative and data-driven storytelling.

Local journalism needs your help. It’s an essential part of a healthy community and a healthy democracy.

Community Funded Journalism logo
Loading...