Reagan Gunman Seeks More Freedom

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October 23, 2006 3:17 PM

The man whose obsession with the actress Jodie Foster drove him to shoot President Reagan 25 years ago "does not pose a danger to himself or others," his lawyer said today and should be allowed more visits home with his elderly parents.

John Hinckley Jr. has been committed to St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Washington, D.C., since 1982, when he was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the attempted assassination.

Last year a judge granted him seven supervised visits to his parents' home in Virginia, and today Hinckley's lawyers returned to court to ask for more.

Attorney Barry Levine told the court, "There is not one scintilla of evidence which supports that he is a danger or has mental health problems."  He said the visits let Hinckley have "a normal lifestyle and normal relationships." 

He also disputed a Justice Department claim that the elder Hinckleys are in failing health and that "their physical ability to supervise Mr. Hinckley is questionable."  According to Levine, Hinckley's parents are doing "fine."

And he pointed out that in addition to parental supervision, the visits are closely monitored by the U.S. Secret Service.

At today's hearing, Judge Paul Friedman said he might consider letting Hinckley's brother and sister act as custodians for future visits.

Judge Friedman indicated he would not make a decision until he reviews briefings from St. Elizabeth's Hospital and the Justice Department, but he said, "My inclination is to continue these visits."

The next hearing is set for Nov. 7.

President Reagan was seriously wounded when Hinckley opened fire at close range outside a Washington hotel on March 30, 1981.

White House Press Secretary James Brady was shot in the head and left brain damaged, and a police officer and Secret Service agent were also injured in the attack.