Colorado Theater Shooter's Sentencing Phase Continues: Key Players Testify

As the sentencing phase of Colorado theater shooter James Holmes' trial continues, key players in his life are taking the stand to share their perspectives on the case. Holmes' lawyers are arguing for a life sentence in prison, rather than the death penalty, and are presenting evidence of his mental illness and a troubled past. The jury has already found that Holmes' crimes were heinous enough to warrant execution, but they must now hear the defense's arguments before making a final decision.

Key Takeaways:

• Holmes' high school cross-country coach, Lori Godwin, testified that she was concerned about Holmes' lack of interaction with his teammates and described him as a "shadow figure".
• A teacher at Westview High School in San Diego, Thomas Oliver, remembered Holmes as quiet and withdrawn, and said he was "pretty invisible".
• A woman who worked at Holmes' elementary school, Suzanne Diaz, described him as a smart and well-liked child known as Jimmy, who was popular and bright.
• Holmes' attorneys argue that his mental illness played a significant role in the 2012 attack that killed 12 people and injured 70 others.
• The jury convicted Holmes last week of multiple counts of murder and attempted murder for his July 2012 attack at a suburban Denver movie theater.
• Holmes' lawyers are expected to focus on his severe mental illness and may call his parents, a college roommate, and former neighbors to testify.

Statistics:

• 12 people were killed in the July 2012 attack on a suburban Denver theater.
• 70 people were injured in the attack.
• Holmes was convicted of multiple counts of murder and attempted murder.
• The jury found that Holmes' crimes were heinous enough to warrant execution.

Sources:

• AP News - "Colorado Theater Shooter's Related to Sentencing Phase of Trial" (no specific date mentioned)
• AP News - "Jurors in Colorado Theater Shooting Trial Decide on Death Penalty" (no specific date mentioned)