Jury finds James Holmes eligible for death penalty in Batman movie-theater massacre
In the initial phase of a post-conviction sentencing hearing, the same Colorado jury that found James Holmes guilty last week of shooting 12 people to death at a Batman movie premiere in 2012 have also found him eligible for the death penalty.
Now the jury must decide whether to impose it in the suburban Denver case.
The first phase of the sentencing hearing focused on whether aggravating factors existed (they did, the jury found Thursday). The second will focus on mitigating evidence presented by the defense in an effort to persuade the jury to sentence Holmes to life in prison, the Los Angeles Times (sub. req.) reports.
Defense lawyers are expected to present evidence on Holmes’ mental state, diagnosed schizophrenia and history of mental health treatment, according to the Associated Press.
An earlier Denver Post story provides additional details.
Related coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “What’s next for convicted movie theater shooter James Holmes? Penalty phase begins Wednesday”
See also:
ABAJournal.com: “Parents of man charged with slaying 12 at Batman movie premiere plead for life-sentence plea bargain”
ABAJournal.com: “Defense lawyers say prosecutor in theater massacre is seeking death penalty for political reasons”
