Psychological Problems Delay School Shooter Sentencing
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: January 22, 2013
BLOOMINGTON- Sentencing for the Normal Community High School shooter has been delayed due to severe psychiatric concerns.
The 14 year old NCHS freshman recently pleaded guilty to bringing guns to school last September and firing one inside a classroom.
He's been meeting with a psychiatrist regularly.
But after an evaluation last week, the doctor says he still has psychotic symptoms and needs more treatment.
Tuesday, the court ruled that the teen be admitted to a mental health facility for more testing before a ruling is made.
"Mental illness is something you never deal with lightly," said defense attorney Art Feldman. "You know you see that not only here but other places across the country so everyone want to take it seriously to make sure we've not only looking out for the best interests of the minor the best interest of the public as well."
A tentative sentencing date has been set for March 5th.
The 14 year old NCHS freshman recently pleaded guilty to bringing guns to school last September and firing one inside a classroom.
He's been meeting with a psychiatrist regularly.
But after an evaluation last week, the doctor says he still has psychotic symptoms and needs more treatment.
Tuesday, the court ruled that the teen be admitted to a mental health facility for more testing before a ruling is made.
"Mental illness is something you never deal with lightly," said defense attorney Art Feldman. "You know you see that not only here but other places across the country so everyone want to take it seriously to make sure we've not only looking out for the best interests of the minor the best interest of the public as well."
A tentative sentencing date has been set for March 5th.
