What to know as Shane James goes on trial in Austin shootings – KSAT

What to know as Shane James goes on trial in Austin shootings  KSAT

Jury selection is underway in the capital murder trial of Shane James, who is accused of killing six people and injuring three others during a series of shootings in December 2023. SAN ANTONIO – Jury selection is underway in the capital murder trial of Shane James, who is accused of killing six people and injuring three others during a series of shootings in December 2023. James’ defense attorneys plan to pursue an insanity defense, raising questions about how Texas law defines legal insanity and what happens if a jury agrees with the defense. Investigators believe the violence began Dec. 4, 2023, at James’ family home in Kirby, where his parents, Phyllis James and Shane James Sr., were killed.

The following morning, the shootings continued in Austin. Here’s a timeline of events: An insanity defense does not simply mean a defendant has a mental illness. Under Texas law, a defendant may be found not guilty by reason of insanity if, because of a severe mental disease or defect, the person did not know the conduct was wrong at the time of the alleged offense. Defense attorney Nico LaHood, who is not involved in this case, explained the distinction. “The element of the crime is that you have to intentionally commit the crime,” LaHood said. “And if you are legally insane, that