Man who tried to assassinate Ronald Reagan released from hospital
A man who tried to assassinate President Ronald Reagan has left a Washington psychiatric hospital today, more than 35 years after the shooting.
John Hinckly Jr has been held in St Elizabeth's Hospital since he tried to shoot the former President in 1981.
In July a federal judge ruled that 61-year-old John Hinckley is not a danger to himself or the public and can leave the facility and live with his mother in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Hinckley had already been visiting Williamsburg for long periods of time in preparation for the full-time transition.
Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the 1981 shooting of Reagan, his press secretary James Brady who was left permanently disabled, and two law enforcement officers outside a Washington hotel.
He carried out the attack in an effort to impress actress Jodie Foster.
In his July 27th ruling, Judge Friedman wrote that Hinckley was a "profoundly troubled 25-year-old young man" when he tried to kill Reagan.
Hinckley's long-time lawyer Barry Levine believes his client will now be a "citizen about whom we can all be proud".
"People of goodwill should celebrate his achievement and success," Mr Levine said.
As part of his release Hinckley will have to follow a range of rules including:
Has to work or volunteer at least three days a week
Has to live with his mother in the gated community of Kingsmill
He will continue to go to therapy while in Williamsburg
For the first six months he'll see his psychiatrist twice a month
Attend weekly group therapy and individual sessions
Must return once a month to St Elizabeth's outpatient department
Can drive within 30 miles of Williamsburg by himself
Can go up to 50 miles from the city if accompanied by his mother, sibling or a therapist or social worker
Not allowed to drink or use illegal drugs
Not allowed to search for information about his crimes or victims
Can't have accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn without permission