Aurora Colorado Mass Shooter James Holmes May Plead Insanity

The suspect in last year's mass shooting in a Colorado movie theater may enter an insanity plea at his arraignment Tuesday.

James Holmes is expected to plead not guilty by reason of insanity in order to avoid the death penalty, but Colorado Circuit Judge William Sylvester has ruled that Holmes would be required to undergo a state psychiatric exam before the plea can be considered. During such an exam, Holmes would likely be medicated in order to ensure his lucidity. He will also be required to to waive all medical confidentiality and identify anyone who has treated him in the past.

Holmes' mental state has been subject to debate as his behavior in court has been less erratic, though it was recently revealed that Holmes was placed in a psychiatric ward last Fall where he was often in restraints lest he harm himself.

James Holmes is charged with carrying out a July 20, 2012 shooting rampage at the Century 16 Cineplex in Aurora, Col. during a midnight screening of 'The Dark Knight Rises' that left 12 people dead and 58 injured.