Loughner's medication was discontinued in July when a three-judge panel ordered a temporary stop to the involuntary treatment. However, after a July 18th administrative hearing within the prison, officials began medicating him again. According to the prison staff, Lougner's mental state went into rapid decline when the medication was removed. He reportedly asked a prison psychologist to kill him and repeatedly went into rants. In addition to bouts of uncontrollable crying, Loughner also spat at one of his own attorneys and threw a chair against his cell wall. Ultimately, officials determined that without anti-psychotic medication Loughner posed a threat to himself and others.
According to Cahn, Loughner should retain the right to decide what medication he receives because he has not been convicted of a crime. Cahn further suggested that the use of anti-psychotic medication to control Loughner's outbursts is nothing short of excessive.
Prison officials, however, refuse to consider the use of tranquilizers or restraints, noting that Loughner's underlying mental illness needs to be addressed.
Although it is unlikely that he panel will make an immediate decision, the ruling could very well determine whether Loughner will ever be able to stand trial for the shooting that left six dead and thirteen wounded.
