Judge: Loughner to undergo more treatment, likely to stand trial
Reporter: Tammy Vo
Web Producer: David Rush
TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - A federal judge ruled that Tucson mass shooting suspect Jared Loughner mental capacity can be restored allowing Loughner to stand trial in the future after hearing testimony from a doctor on Wednesday.
Loughner will be sent back to a federal hospital where he will undergo treatment, a progress report will be delivered in 4 months before the next hearing.
The January 8th, shooter was in the courtroom while lawyers argued if Loughner was competent to stand trial for killing six people and injuring 19 others including Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Unlike his last court appearance in Tucson, Loughner remained quiet during the proceedings.
Loughner's doctor testified on behalf of the state and told judge Larry Burns before Loughner was medicated, he had imaginary friends and thought Giffords was actually dead. The doctor also testified Loughner had inappropriate gestures and smiles on his face during times when he shouldn't, would defecate in his bed and pace around for hours.
But since Loughner has been medicated, the doctor testified he is better. The doctor said Loughner is still delusional, but trusts and enjoys his attorneys more, he understands that Giffords is not dead but knows he killed six people and acts remorseful.
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