Hearing to resume on John Hinckley’s freedom

A hearing is to resume Monday in U.S. District Court in Washington to help determine whether the man who shot President Reagan in 1981 eventually could be released from the mental hospital where he has lived since 1982.

The proposal by St. Elizabeths Hospital would grant John Hinckley Jr. two 17-day visits, followed by six 24-day visits to his mother’s home in Kingsmill, Va. After he completes the extended, unsupervised releases, Hinckley would get a convalescence leave.

Hinckley’s lawyers and treatment team envision his completing all eight releases within eight to 10 months, with the convalescence leave immediately afterward.

TIMELINE: Presidential assassinations and attempts

But U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman, who is presiding over the hearing, has said he’s not likely to agree to any convalescence leave without another full hearing.

Federal prosecutors opposed the proposal, contending that Hinckley remains a danger to society. They point to his low socialization skills, community resistance and questionable behavior on Hinckley’s part, such as telling lies to his treatment providers.

Several Secret Service agents are expected to testify about some of Hinckley’s behavior, specifically about actions they reported during one of his recent trips to his mother’s home.

Assistant U.S. Atty. Sarah Chasson has said the Secret Service report indicates that Hinckley picked up a book about presidential assassins while visiting a bookstore.

But Hinckley’s attorney, Barry Levine, said the report didn’t indicate that Hinckley picked up any particular book.

Agents’ testimony is expected to clarify the report.

In 1982, Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the 1981 shooting of Reagan and three other men. He has been under St. Elizabeths’ care since then.

TIMELINE: Presidential assassinations and attempts