Defense Psychologist: Philly Cop Killer Was Depressed
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A psychologist has testified for the defense that admitted cop killer Rasheed Scruggs had a long history of drug abuse, which probably played a role in the crime.
The defense was presenting evidence of "mitigation" -- evidence it hopes will convince the jury to sentence Scruggs to life in prison rather than the death penalty.
Psychologist Jonathan Mack told the jury on Friday that Scrugs abused both PCP and marijuana for over a decade -- self medicating to deal with depression -- which resulted in violent and aggressive behavior.
And Dr. Mack testified that he believes Scruggs was in a depressed and pessimistic state, and high on PCP and marijuana, when he shot and killed police officer John Pawlowski in February 2009 (see previous story).
The prosecution is arguing for the death penalty based on aggravating factors, including that the victim was a police officer and that others were put in danger.
Reported by Tony Hanson, KYW Newsradio 1060.
