JOHN SALVI AND THE INSANITY DEFENSE
Did John Salvi knowingly choose to murder in the name of a political or religious cause? Or were his actions caused by a severe mental disorder which left him unable to control himself?
JANUARY 15, 1995 PSYCHIATRIC INTERVIEWSalvi's lawyers have decided to mount the insanity defense. As his trial begins, examine for yourself here on these pages evidence and psychiatric testimony about his mental state.
How close a case is it of whether he should or shouldn't be held criminally responsible for the murders?
This two-and-a half hour interview of John Salvi by defense psychiatrist Dr. Phillip J. Resnick was entered into evidence at Salvi's Competency Hearing (July 1995). Excerpts from it were used to support the defense's argument that Salvi has a severe mental disorder.
COURT TRANSCRIPT OF 4-Day COMPETENCY HEARING
Four Excerpts from the interview (RealAudio)
Full Transcript of the interview
In July 1995 a four-day hearing was held into John Salvi's competency to stand trial. The hearing involved opposing psychiatric and psychological opinions on his mental status.
ALSO:
Addresses || Tapes and Transcripts || Feedback
FRONTLINE / WGBH Educational Foundation / www.wgbh.org[site produced feb. 1996]