On Tuesday, March 12, 2013, the Aurora Theater shooting suspect James Holmes was back in court for his arraignment hearing, and Judge William Sylvester entered a not guilty plea on his behalf during the court proceedings, according to CBS News.
Holmes' attorney objected, stating that the suspect in the shooting was not ready to make a plea at this time. However, the Colorado judge stated that he could change his plea at a later date, to not guilty by reason of insanity, if he wanted too, according to the Associated Press.
The Aurora Theater shooting suspect could choose to pursue an insanity plea, but it would waive claims of confidentiality with physicians and psychologists. In addition, the prosecution could have psychiatrists and psychologists examine and observe him, as a rebuttal to that line of defense per AOL On Network.
Prosecutors have stated in the past that they believe the evidence shows the suspect knew right from wrong, which would be key in disproving an insanity defense. And prosecutors also say that they feel the Aurora Theater shooting suspect planned the attack well in advance of the massacre, as ammunition and other purchases made prior to the attack help support that hypothesis.
The District Attorney will announce on April 1 if he plans to seek the death penalty in the case against the Aurora Theater shooting suspect.
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