The man accused of killing six people and shooting Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in the head may plead guilty Tuesday.
The U.S Attorney’s Office won’t comment on whether Jared Loughner is expected to plead guilty to charges related to last year’s shooting at a Tucson, Arizona, grocery store where Giffords was meeting with constituents.
Court records say a competency hearing is scheduled for Tuesday. If Loughner is found mentally competent, his attorney has asked for a change of plea hearing. The Los Angeles Times and Wall Street Journal are reporting that the 23-year-old will plead guilty at Tuesday's hearing.
Loughner allegedly shot and killed six people during the rampage. Thirteen people were injured in the shooting, including Giffords. Giffords resigned for her position in Congress in January to focus on her recovery.
Loughner could change his plea if he is found to be mentally competent. He is facing 49 charges, including multiple counts of first-degree murder. He is also facing the possibility of a death sentence if he’s convicted. In Session’s legal experts say that Loughner may ask for a prison sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
Prosecutors say Loughner suffers from schizophrenia and his mental health and competency to stand trial have been the focus of most of the court proceedings.
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