Defense's Psychologist Speaks of Patterson's Mental State

Dr. Norman Lesswing, a clinical and forensic psychologist brought to the stand by the Defense, evaluated Patterson's mental state.  He told the jury Patterson showed signs of depression from his observations, and said he had difficulty communicating.  He says he believes that depression developed in the months leading up to the stand-off, due to relationship issues and tension with his son.  Dr. Lesswing talked about what Patterson told him regarding the standoff:

" Why didn't he put the gun down?," asked Chief Public Defender Frank Nebush.

"He told me that he thought about killing himself or there were times that he thought maybe the police would kill him. He did not want to leave or be arrested he wanted to stay where he was.  He was feeling, I think, trapped, hopeless, and helpless about his situation," responded Lesswing.

Lesswing discussed that the two shots Patterson fired after being struck by rubber bullets were involuntary and due to a fight-or-flight response.  Officials who were at the scene testified earlier in the trial that Patterson was shot three times, which Patterson doesn't recall. 

The prosecution questioned Lesswing about not discussing the third shot in his report. They asked Lesswing why he was crediting the defendant's version of what happened, as opposed to the many officials who testified.  The defense rested their case today.  Closing statements are expected tomorrow.