Judge won’t bar video of theater shooting suspect

The judge overseeing the Colorado theater shooting case will allow video of the suspect’s sanity evaluation to be played during trial.

Judge Carlos A. Samour Jr. on Monday denied a request by James Holmes’ defense attorneys to bar the recorded interviews with a doctor. The judge says the videotapes represent the best evidence of the examination. Samour also refused to exclude certain statements Holmes allegedly made during the exam.

Holmes has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to charges of killing 12 people and injuring 70 in the July 20, 2012, attack. His mental state will be a focal point during his trial. Jury selection is expected to start in January.

The evaluation is considered a key piece of evidence jurors will consider when determining Holmes’ sanity.