Insanity defense allowed in Burlington attempted murder case, judge rules

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Another step forward in the impending trial of Jason Eaton, who’s accused of shooting three Palestinian students in November of 2023.

On Friday, a judge ruled that, despite late notice, Eaton will be allowed to use an insanity defense.

For now, the trial is scheduled to start on June 1.

However, a judge is letting the state decide if it would like to push the trial back after these new developments.

“I’m disappointed in the court’s decision, but prepared to go forward to trial either in June or later. I’m going to talk to the victims about their preference and inform the court,” said George.

Questions remain if the state goes forward with a June 1 trial, as they say they won’t have an expert in time for the insanity defense.