Arapahoe County District Attorney George Brauchler in court Monday, April 01, 2013, stated he would seek the death penalty for the Aurora Colorado theater shooter, suspect James Holmes, during a mid morning court hearing.
Arlene and Robert Holmes were present. Family member and friends were present for the court hearing.
“It is my determination and my intention that in this case, for James Eagan Holmes, justice is death,” Arapahoe County District Attorney George Brauchler said at a court hearing. Brauchler also added that he had not discussed his decision with anyone including his family and prosecuting team.
James Holmes is suspected of killing 12 and injuring 58 people attending the midnight showing of “The Dark Knight Rises.” July 20, 2012. Holmes is charged with 166 counts of murder, attempted murder and other offenses in connection with the attack at what was then called the Century Aurora 16 movie theater.
The Holmes defense team will have their work cut out for them. Brauchler has stated he wants the trial to begin in January 2014 anticipating the trial to last only a few months. Holmes’ public defenders were seeking a much longer trial beginning over the summer or fall next year. “They are trying to execute our client,” she said. “We will do whatever we can to save his life.” A heroic plea was made by the defense.
Whichever it is Chief Judge Sylvester has handed the gavel over to Judge Carolos A. Samour for what will certainly be an emotionally charged and grueling trial. Judge Samour is known for his fair but tough control of the bench.
