Theater shootings judge: Fingerprint testimony OK

DENVER (AP) — The judge in the Colorado theater shooting trial has rejected a defense motion to bar testimony about fingerprint analysis at James Holmes’ trial on murder and attempted murder charges.

In a ruling released today, Judge Carlos A. Samour Jr. said fingerprint comparison was reliable and the prosecution’s witnesses were credible.

Defense attorneys had questioned the reliability of fingerprint analysis and the lack of mandatory nationwide training standards.

Fingerprints aren’t expected to play a significant role in the trial, scheduled to start Dec. 8, but defense attorneys appear to be trying to weaken any part of prosecutors’ case they can.

Holmes is charged with killing 12 people and injuring 70 in the July 20, 2012, attack on a Denver-area movie theater. He pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.