CENTENNIAL, Colo.—The man suspected in Colorado’s movie theater shooting appeared in court Thursday as prosecutors gave up their fight to see a notebook he sent to a university psychiatrist, saying they didn’t want to delay proceedings.
Other matters argued by prosecutors and defense attorneys at the hearing, but not ruled on by Arapahoe County District Judge William B. Sylvester included:
— A prosecutor’s request to obtain a palm print from James Holmes to compare it with a partial palm print found on the inside of an exit door at the theater, as well as an additional DNA sample.
Deputy District Attorney Rich Orman said technicians could not compare the palm print with standard fingerprints. It was unclear why prosecutors sought an additional DNA sample.
Defense attorney Daniel King objected, saying prosecutor’s request for “non-testimonial evidence” is unreasonable.
— A defense attorney’s request for sanctions against prosecutors for “reckless disregard for the truth.”
King said that prosecutors made unsupported allegations in court and in documents that Holmes made “threats” and was “banned” from the University of Colorado, Denver, where he was a graduate student in the neuroscience program.
King asked the judge to temporarily lift a gag order so he could issue a statement to the media on Holmes’ behalf regarding the matter.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Karen Pearson said she provided documents to Holmes’ defense team that support the allegations.
