MURDER ON "ABORTION ROW"
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?
Salvi'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?
JANUARY 15, 1995 PSYCHIATRIC INTERVIEW
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.
Four Excerpts from the interview (RealAudio)
Full Transcript of the interview
COURT TRANSCRIPT OF 4-Day COMPETENCY HEARING
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.
Full Transcript
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[site produced feb. 1996]